Media Contact: 
Adam Cassady, (202) 418-2332
Adam.Cassady@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

COMMISSIONER SIMINGTON PRAISES EBB PROGRAM ORDER 

WASHINGTON, February 25, 2021—Today, the Federal Communications Commission voted to adopt an Order implementing the $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. Congress, in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act, directed the Commission to establish a program through which “eligible low-income households may receive a discount off the cost of broadband service and certain connected devices during an emergency period relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, and participating providers can receive a reimbursement for such discounts.”

Commissioner Simington praised the agency for its work on the Order, saying: “Thanks to my fellow Commissioners, my staff, and the entire agency, especially the Wireline Competition Bureau, for their diligent efforts in getting this Order across the finish line. I specifically would like to thank Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel for her leadership on this matter. While every member of the Commission is dedicated to acting in the public interest, Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel demonstrated that dedication and timely ‘got it done’ at a moment of significant transition within the Commission.

“I would also like to thank the members of the broadband community, particularly rural providers, who submitted comments and met with my staff and me to explain their points of view. They advocated for a common start date to the program, a lighter compliance load for non-ETC providers, and an expedited review of their eligibility verification processes. I am delighted that all of these concerns have been addressed in the Order.

“The pandemic has devastated communities across America, costing thousands of lives and millions of jobs. Today’s Order ensures that those who most need help in staying connected to school, to work, to health care providers, and to loved ones, are able to do so.”

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This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).