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Congressman Gonzalez Announces Launch of Application Period for Emergency Connectivity Fund

July 1, 2021

WASHINGTON – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced the launch of the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) application period and urged local schools and libraries to apply for funding to help students, teachers, and library patrons get the tools they need to connect to the internet from home.

The Emergency Connectivity Fund is an innovative new program that offers funding for schools and libraries to provide the equipment and services their communities need for remote learning. The $7.17 billion program was authorized as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which was signed into law in March. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently announcedthat the application window will be open from today until August 13, 2021.

"Nearly 17 million children across the country without Internet access," said Congressman Gonzalez. "That's why I supported the creation of the Emergency Connectivity Fund, which will deploy broadband service and put devices into the hands of the students, teachers, and library patrons who need them. I will continue working to ensure that access to broadband and technology no longer keeps South Texas students locked out of the virtual classroom."

For eligible schools and libraries, the ECF Program will cover costs of laptop and tablet computers; Wi-Fi hotspots; modems; routers; and broadband connectivity purchases for off-campus use by students, school staff, and library patrons. Schools and libraries interested in applying for funding are encouraged to visit the FCC's informational website – https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-connectivity-fund – to check if they are eligible and learn more.

Issues:Education