Congressman Cleaver Highlights Launch of the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Today

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, United States Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) highlighted the launch of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program today and urged eligible Missourians to enroll to receive a discount on their monthly internet bill.

"Whether it's virtual learning, remote work, or telehealth visits, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted just how important access to high-speed internet is for families in every community across the nation," said Congressman Cleaver. "I was proud to support the Emergency Broadband Benefit last year, and I highly encourage anyone in Missouri who is struggling to keep up with internet bills to see if they qualify for this monthly discount. As Congress continues its work to build back better from the pandemic, I will continue pushing for the expansion of broadband access to every Missourian in our state."

The EBB Program is a groundbreaking new program created as part of the final omnibus appropriations bill last year that will help economically vulnerable Missourians afford their monthly bill for internet—something that is critical to climbing the economic ladder in the 21^st century. The EBB Program will provide struggling families a discount of $50, or $75 on tribal lands, off the monthly cost of home internet service. It may also provide an additional subsidy for a computer for eligible applicants. Internet providers who participate in the program can apply to the FCC for a reimbursement.

Households interested in learning whether they qualify for the EBB Program are encouraged to visit the FCC's enrollment website here, and then sign up for the program through their internet service provider.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or matthew.helfant@mail.house.gov