FCC OKs EBB Order 4-0, With Sign-Ups Possible in 2 Months

FCC members unanimously approved an emergency broadband benefit program order earlier Thursday, the agency announced tonight. This paves the way for the $3.2 billion program to give "qualifying households discounts on their internet service bills and an opportunity to receive a discount on a computer or tablet."

The rules are for largest-ever U.S. "program to help households nationwide afford broadband service," the agency said. Work is "underway to get this program up and running," said acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. "I expect it to be open to eligible households within the next 60 days as providers sign up and program systems are put in place."

Rosenworcel "demonstrated that dedication and timely ‘got it done’ at a moment of significant transition within the Commission," said the agency's newest member, Republican Nathan Simington. ISPs "advocated for a common start date to the program, a lighter compliance load for" noneligible telecom carrier providers, "and an expedited review of their eligibility verification processes," he noted. "All of these concerns have been addressed."

The order will be released once "we receive statements from all commissioners," said an FCC spokesperson. The other FCC members didn't immediately have statements, and further details on the vote weren't immediately provided.