On Monday, Acting FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel circulated a draft Report and Order to establish the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBBP).

"As we work our way through a pandemic that has upended so much in our day-to-day life, we have been asked to migrate so many of the things we do online.  From work to healthcare to education, this crisis has made it clear that without an internet connection too many households are locked out of modern life.  It's more apparent than ever that broadband is no longer nice-to-have.  It's need-to-have."  Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel

The FCC is seeking outreach partners to help build awareness and educate consumers about the Emergency Broadband Benefit among their membership and communities.  Sign up at the FCC's EBB webpage and bookmark the page to check on program updates and important information for consumers.

Circulating the Draft Report and Order among the FCC's Commissioners is an important step in our rulemaking process.  Ultimately, the item will be voted on by the Acting Chairwoman and Commissioners.  Then, assuming an affirmative vote, the Bureaus and Offices of the FCC would begin the process of launching and executing the program.

The Acting Chairwoman has also released a preview of the March Open Meeting agenda.  You can see her Notes on both the agenda and the Emergency Broadband Benefit Order here:  https://www.fcc.gov/about/leadership/jessica-rosenworcel#link-0