Internet Access Could Be Limited In New York State

From Buffalo to Albany, everyone needs to be online at some point during the week. For most people, it is required everyday! One thing we learned from the COVID pandemic is that remote working and learning can be effective and productive and the need for high-speed internet is vital.

Those of us who are old enough to remember the days of dial up internet know what it is like to wait for things to download. But in 2023, we need things to be much faster as there is more demand for us to do things online. At least one New York State official is trying to make sure that high-speed internet is available to all who need it.

Funds that are needed to help pay for high-speed internet may soon be gone unless an extension of the funds is granted.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling on her colleagues in Congress to keep the Affordable Connectivity Program running. Gillibrand believes that fast and reliable internet is no longer a luxury and is necessary for everyday life.

The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program (AHCP) is improving broadband access in regulated affordable rental units across New York State. .

The AP reports that:

But the program’s future is uncertain. Its primary source of funding, a $14.2 billion allocation, is projected to run out by the middle of 2024. That could end access to affordable broadband for millions of people and hinder the Biden administration’s push to bring connectivity to the people who need it most.