Program offers broadband discounts during pandemic for eligible users

A coalition of state agencies have joined forces with Utah Communities Connect, an organization promoting digital equity in the state, to help build consumer awareness about the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), a new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that helps lower the cost of broadband service for eligible households during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enrollment for the program began on May 12.

The Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), divisions of the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement and the Utah State Board of Education have joined Utah Communities Connect in the effort.

“Broadband Internet is vital for Utahns’ economic well-being, including participation in and access to online work, school, healthcare and other essential services,” said Dan Hemmert, GOED’s executive director. “We know there are households that need to connect to the Internet for essential services but can’t afford it. The Emergency Broadband Benefit will help to ensure every household in Utah has access to the benefits of online connection as we complete our pandemic recovery.”

The $3.2 billion program provides a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for qualifying households on qualifying tribal lands. Additionally, the benefit provides up to a $100 per household discount toward a one-time purchase of a computer, laptop, or tablet if the household contributes more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase through a participating broadband provider.

Consumer can find eligibility requirements and the application process at GOED’s Emergency Broadband Benefits webpage: https://business.utah.gov/broadband/emergency-broadband-benefit/.