Affordable Internet Access For Low-Income Families In New York State

On August 15th, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced a settlement to provide discounted broadband to low-income residents of the Empire State.

The New York State Public Service Commission reached a settlement agreement with Charter Communications, the parent company of Spectrum which provided cable and interest services throughout the United States, including 58 out of the 62 counties in New York State.

According to the Governor's Office, the settlement agreement will require Charter Communications to provide discounted broadband service to low-income customers in the National Free School Lunch Program or receive Supplemental Security Income benefits.

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My administration has been steadfast in its commitment to expand internet service to all New Yorkers, and this settlement directly benefits thousands of low-income New York families. Broadband is crucial to driving economic growth and opportunity for all of our citizens, and we will continue our efforts to provide broadband access across the state. - New York State Governor Kathy Hochul

Governor Hochul's Office notes that the settlement requires Charter Communications to re-establish the program at $15/month for 50 Mbps download speed for four years to New Yorkers in the National Free School Lunch Program or those receiving SSI benefits.

As part of the settlement agreement, for years two through four of the program, Charter Communications will not be allowed to raise the price by more than the rate of inflation as measured by the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index beginning in the second year of the program.

For more information, visit New York State Governor Kathy Hochul's website.