On March 13, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the Keep Americans Connected Pledge to ensure that Americans do not lose their broadband or telephone connectivity as a result of these exceptional circumstances. The Keep Americans Connected Pledge reads as follows:
Given the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on American society, [[Company Name]] pledges for the next 60 days to:
- not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic;
- waive any late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic; and
- open its Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them.
In addition to the pledge, the FCC urged providers to:
(1) expand and improve low-income broadband programs (e.g. by increasing speeds and expanding eligibility).
(2) adopt low-income programs if they don’t have them now.
(3) relax data cap policies as appropriate.
(4) waive long-distance and overage fees as appropriate.
(5) work with schools and libraries on remote learning opportunities.
(6) prioritize the connectivity needs of hospitals and healthcare providers.
The FCC has established a web page for the initiative with up-to-date information and news about their efforts to support connectivity:
https://www.fcc.gov/keep-americans-connected
If you have questions about your service, please contact your service provider to ask if they have taken the Keep Americans Connected Pledge and ask what service accommodations customers can expect in your community.