Spectrum made to restore $15/month low-income internet: Hochul

August 20, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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STATEWIDE — GOV. HOCHUL ON Thursday announced that the state has reached a settlement with Charter Communications, the parent company of Spectrum, requiring Charter to re-establish an earlier program offering discount broadband internet at $15 a month to New Yorkers who are in the National Free School Lunch Program or who receive SSI benefits. Charter will be required to offer the program for four years, and cannot raise rates higher than the rate of inflation. A 2016 agreement approving a merger between Charter and former Spectrum owner Time Warner Cable had included a condition that Charter offer a low-income broadband program for $14.99 per month, but according to the state, Charter allegedly increased the monthly price to $24.99 for higher speeds, without the necessary approval from the state Public Service Commission. The new settlement requires Charter to maintain those higher speeds, at the lower price.

“This emphasizes our commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting low-income families by providing reliable internet access. In a world where connectivity is essential, this initiative will empower our communities and enhance opportunities for those in need,” State Sen. Roxanne Persaud wrote in a press statement.

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