New York State Launches Affordable Internet Access Program
New York State has enacted legislation to establish affordable, high-speed internet for qualifying low-income families. The legislation requires providers operating in New York to offer $15 per month for high-speed internet access to low-income families across the State. Those eligible include senior citizens and those eligible to receive free or reduced-price lunches, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, Medicaid benefits, or disability rent increase exemptions. Please visit the Affordable Broadband Portal to search for these programs by internet provider or county. Households unable to afford $15/month internet services can sign up for ConnectED NY, a partnership between New York State, Schmidt Futures, and the Ford Foundation to provide students in economically disadvantaged school districts with free internet access through June 2022.