Survey Finds Americans Unable to Afford Necessary Internet Services Post-Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) | PR Newswire [Video]

NaLA releases survey of low-income consumer demographics and experiences with FCC internet subsidy programs

, /PRNewswire/ — A new survey from the National Lifeline Association (NaLA) gives clearer insights into life without the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) for formerly enrolled subscribers.

NaLA’s survey received more than 68,000 responses and nearly 30,000 personal testimonies from Lifeline and/or former ACP participants who shared information about themselves and how they use phone and broadband service.

Survey results show that Lifeline benefits fall short of addressing the growing broadband affordability gap, forcing respondents to cut budgets in other areas to maintain internet access.

Key findings:

• Without the ACP, Americans have had to make tough budget decisions to stay connected to the internet and face challenges without it. 40% reported cutting food spending to afford their monthly internet bills. 36% indicated they discontinued telehealth without the ACP and 64% said they could not maintain regular contact with friends and family.
• The end of the ACP resulted in adults …