In the digital age, access to reliable internet is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. This truth has become even more evident as we’ve navigated through recent global challenges that pushed us towards remote work, online schooling, and telehealth services. Yet, for many in rural New Mexico, high-speed internet remains out of reach due to the cost barrier—a critical issue that the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) seeks to address.
The ACP, run by the FCC, has helped ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
However, the ACP is running out of money. The program stopped accepting new applications on Feb. 7. The last fully funded month of the program was April. Congress originally made available $14.2 billion, and unless Congress approves new funding, the program will end this month.
In another election year, the importance of continued funding for the ACP cannot be overstated, not just for the sake of connectivity, but for the broader implications it has on education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in our communities.
For rural New Mexicans, the digital divide is a stark reality. Geographic isolation compounds the challenges of accessing the same resources and opportunities that are readily available in more urban areas.
The ACP, by offering financial assistance to low-income families for internet services, has played a pivotal role in bridging this divide. Its impact goes beyond just providing a financial lifeline; it’s about ensuring equitable access to information, enabling remote education, and opening doors to telehealth services, which have become indispensable, especially in areas where medical facilities are scarce.
The significance of the ACP extends into the realm of economic empowerment and job creation. In today’s economy, many job opportunities, as well as essential job-seeking resources, are found online. Without access to reliable internet, rural residents are at a significant disadvantage in the job market. By supporting the ACP, we’re not just funding a program; we’re investing in the economic vitality of our rural communities and leveling the playing field for all New Mexicans.
In light of these considerations, it’s clear that the ACP is much more than a subsidy program; it’s a critical infrastructure investment in the future of New Mexico. However, its success and continuation hinge on the support of policymakers and the acknowledgment of its importance by voters. As we move toward the polls, it’s imperative that we advocate for and prioritize continued funding for the ACP. This is not just a call to action for those directly affected by the digital divide but for all New Mexicans who believe in equitable access to opportunities and the importance of connectivity in the modern world.
Policymakers must recognize that funding the ACP is not merely a budgetary decision but a commitment to the future of our state—a future where every New Mexican, regardless of where they live, has the tools and resources to thrive in the 21st century.
As we approach this year’s election, we urge our elected leaders in Washington to continue funding the Affordable Connectivity Program. It’s not just a matter of maintaining the status quo but a crucial step towards building a more connected, informed, and economically vibrant state.
The benefits of the ACP extend far beyond individual households—it has the potential to transform entire communities. Therefore, it’s incumbent upon voters, policymakers, and community leaders to champion the cause of digital equity and ensure that the ACP remains a priority in the political discourse. The future of New Mexico depends on it.