OWENTON, KY – With the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) at risk of discontinuation, Broadlinc, a leading internet service provider dedicated to rural Kentucky, has taken proactive steps to advocate for the essential program. Demonstrating their commitment, TJ Scott, VP of Operations at Broadlinc, recently visited Washington, D.C., to directly appeal to policymakers on the importance of continuing the ACP, which serves as a critical lifeline for rural communities.
The ACP has enabled over 6% of Broadlinc's customers to access or maintain internet connectivity, proving to be an indispensable resource for those facing economic challenges and ensuring that children and adults can tap into the vast online resources for education, healthcare, and remote work opportunities.
Kerry Bowlin, President of Broadlinc, emphasizes the importance of the ACP, stating, "The loss of the ACP means more than losing internet access; it signifies a setback in our progress towards digital equity and inclusion." Echoing this sentiment, TJ Scott, VP of Operations, highlights the program's role in facilitating education, healthcare, and remote work opportunities, which have become indispensable.
During his visit to the capital on March 7th, Scott engaged in discussions with key stakeholders, emphasizing the program's transformative impact on Broadlinc's customers. From enhancing children's education to enabling essential telehealth services, the ACP has been a lifeline for many. The importance of the ACP is best illustrated through the words of those it has helped:
“I can now have telehealth with my doctors when I can’t go in to see them,” said Darrell, Monticello, KY.
“It has made the internet affordable in this day and age. Everything is so high. With it, it made it so we didn't have to struggle to pay for our internet,” said Joyce, Sparta, KY.
“My children could do school work when they missed school because of Covid,” said Tosha, Owenton, KY.
“With ACP, I was able to get a package from Broadlinc that I normally couldn't afford,” said Christy, Milton, KY.
The potential end of the ACP in April raises concerns among customers about the future affordability of their internet service and the detrimental impact the loss of internet access will have on those affected. Voices from the community express apprehension about the impact on their budgets and their children's education, emphasizing the program's role in their lives.
In response to the potential program closure, Broadlinc is rallying support for its continuation. The company urges customers, community members, and stakeholders to voice the necessity of the ACP to policymakers. The collective effort aims to secure the future of internet access for underserved and rural populations, ensuring that no Kentucky family is left behind in the digital age.
"We are at a pivotal moment where our collective action can sustain access to vital online resources," said Scott. "I urge everyone to join us in this effort by reaching out to their representatives and sharing the critical importance of the ACP."
Broadlinc remains committed to working with policymakers, industry partners, and communities to find solutions that ensure no family is left without internet access. The company's efforts to advocate for the ACP underscore its dedication to digital inclusion and the belief that internet access is a necessity, not a luxury. This view is why Broadlinc continues to invest significant resources into expanding high-speed rural internet access to customers across rural Kentucky.
Contact:
Brittany Derderian
Director of Marketing
Broadlinc
859-630-9087
brittany.bowlin@broadlinc.com
###
For more information about Broadlinc, contact the company here:
Broadlinc
Brittany Bowlin
855-552-2253
support@broadlinc.com
150 Progress Way, Owenton, KY 40359
