United StatesAdds high-speed internet costs to public housing utility allowances
More affordable home internet for eligible public housing students can reduce homework and learning barriers but raises questions about implementation, cost, and content controls.
What it does
Adds high-speed internet service (including equipment rental/purchase and one-time installation) to public housing utility allowances.
Caps the monthly internet cost that can be covered to the "lowest cost available in the area" and excludes cable/satellite TV and telephone costs from the allowance.
Limits eligibility for including internet costs in the allowance to households that pay for internet and have children who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.
Requires ISPs to provide, when service is first provided, filtering/blocking technology to protect minors at a level tied to existing certification standards.
Argument forMakes home high-speed internet more affordable for low-income students in public housing by allowing standard internet costs, equipment, and installation to be part of utility allowances.
Argument againstRequiring ISPs to provide filtering technology and tying coverage to certification standards could complicate implementation and raise costs or delays from providers.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jun 4Introduced in HouseLatest
- Jun 4Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.Introduced
HousingEducationTechnology