FCC Announces ACP Changes: Full Reimbursement Ends in April, Reduced Benefit in May
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced changes to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). From April 2024, full reimbursement of ACP-supported services will end, and a reduced benefit will be available from May 2024. Providers must inform consumers about these changes.
The FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau has set April 2024 as the final month for full reimbursement of ACP-supported services. Starting in May 2024, providers should plan to pass through a reduced benefit to eligible households. This change follows the FCC's March 2024 announcement that the full ACP amount would no longer be fully reimbursed.
Providers must notify consumers about the reduced benefit and undiscounted rates for May 2024. They are required to send two notices to ACP households by March 19, 2024, and a third notice with the last bill. After the program ends, providers are no longer required to include ACP information on their broadband labels. However, they must continue to follow ACP consumer protection rules and FCC's rules for program compliance.
The FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program will see changes in April and May 2024. Providers and consumers should be prepared for the reduced benefit and updated notification requirements. Despite the program's evolution, providers must maintain compliance with FCC rules.
