Salt Lake County is pleased to announce that it has received nearly $170,000 from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to promote enrollment in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The primary goal of this program is to help provide Salt Lake County residents with subsidized, or even free, access to the internet.
“It’s hard to apply for an internet discount without the internet,” said Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. “This grant will allow our team to get affordable internet to the residents who need it most. That’s crucial in today’s world where access to jobs, education, and so much more depends on being able to access the internet.”
The ACP was expanded via the infrastructure bill (lifeline program) and now offers a $30 monthly benefit for high-speed, in-home broadband service and a $50 benefit for devices. That amount increases to $75 a month for Native Americans. Despite this, only around 13% of Utah’s eligible population have enrolled in the ACP.
For internet plans that only cost $30, receiving this subsidy would effectively eliminate your internet bill. In addition,eligible households can receive a one-time device discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers*.
Salt Lake County residents might be eligible based on their household income, if they or their dependent participate in certain government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, or other programs, or if anyone in their household already receives a Lifeline benefit.
This grant will allow Salt Lake County to hire a team to provide in-person enrollment assistance, helping those who need it most gain access to these resources. An estimated 75+ organizations applied for the ACP Navigator Pilot Program, and Salt Lake County was one of only 9 approved.
At Salt Lake County, we are dedicated to providing our residents with access to the resources they need. The ACP Navigator Pilot Program is just one way we are helping bridge the digital divide and expand access for all residents across our county.
* if the household contributes more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price of the device.
