BEAUMONT, Texas — Affordable internet access is at risk if congress doesn't pass a bill by the end of April. If not passed, nearly 2 million Texas households will lose the monthly subsidy that helps offset the cost of their internet bills.
Now, the State of Texas is stepping in by setting aside more than $3.1 million in grant money for families who need help paying for internet.
There's no start date for when people could apply for funds.
"I'm disappointed with our federal elected officials on this issue," said former House State Representative James White.
The Affordable Connectivity Program started in 2021, after students and workers were sent home.
White says the need for expanded access and affordability is great.
"Broadband connectivity in rural east, west, south Texas, is to us in the 21st century as rural electrification was in the early 20th century," White told 12News.
One Texas mother, Mrs. Barnes says she doesn't know what she will do if she loses funds until the bill is passed. Tina Barnes says she can only afford reliable high-speed services thanks to the monthly subsidy.
"I didn't have internet, we just used our phones, we didn't have to have internet," Barnes told our sister station in Dallas, WFAA. "Oh, it’s awesome."
The program provides low-income households with up to a $30 a month credit for their internet bill, thanks to a bipartisan infrastructure bill.
"The subsidization for monthly help is good but we need to get on top of it," White said.
Today, the federal government approved the state's digital equity plan, which will allow them to set aside the $3 million for grants. However, there is no date for when Texans can apply.
White says it will take collaboration to find a solution.
"That's why we need everyone working as a team, to get the build out done because that is where the cost is upfront," he said.
Since 1 in 7 Texans are in need of broadband assistance this is a larger problem that 12News will continue to monitor and update you on.
1.7 million Texas households are set to lose monthly internet subsidy
The program provides a $30 monthly subsidy to help low-income households pay for internet service but it's slated to run out of money at the end of April.