Will the Government's New Broadband Subsidies Close the Digital Divide for Older Americans?

Next Avenue reports that on May 12, the FCC will launch the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, which will have Internet service providers deliver broadband for low-income Americans who qualify up to $50 off monthly, plus a one-time $100 discount for a new computer or tablet. Proponents for older adults say the new broadband subsidies are a step toward closing the digital divide, but more must be done to get them online. Angela Siefer at the National Digital Inclusion Alliance warned that many older Americans lack basic digital literacy, and harbor security concerns. "It's not just about giving seniors broadband access," explained Vivian Nava-Schellinger with the National Council on Aging. "It's also about giving them the information they need to engage safely online." FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said as a result of the program, "we will have a new way for disconnected Americans to access the Internet to carry out their day-to-day life." Eligible households will be able to apply for discounts by either enrolling directly with their ISP or filling out an application online. Qualifying households will include people who lost jobs and have seen their income substantially decline since Feb. 29, 2020, and Medicaid enrollees or those with incomes equal to 135 percent or less of the federal poverty guidelines.