Collins Highlights Federal Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

CHICAGO – To ensure eligible households stay connected to the internet, state Rep. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, is highlighting the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program.

“As families continue to face challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s essential that they remain connected to the internet and the resources that broadband offers,” said Collins, “Without internet, children will fall behind in school and jobseekers can be limited in their job search.”

The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband services for eligible households. A household is eligible if they are at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, participate in SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline, approved to receive benefits under free and reduced-price school lunch or breakfast during the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 school year, received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since Feb. 29, 2020, or meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program. More information can be found at https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit.

“The Emergency Broadband Benefit service is vital to keep families facing financial challenges connected to the online world,” Collins said. “Access to the internet will eliminate another barrier for those families suffering most due to setbacks caused by the pandemic.”