Computer and Internet Access Equity Act
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (29 Mar 2021): Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.
What this bill does
H.R. 2201, the Computer and Internet Access Equity Act, aims to reduce the "digital divide" by combining tax relief with expanded broadband subsidies and digital-skills training. It would create a new federal tax credit of up to $2,000 per year ($4,000 for joint filers), capped at a $10,000 lifetime total ($20,000 for joint filers), for computer, printer, and related education-technology costs, with the credit phasing out at higher incomes and available as advance payments. It also directs the FCC to raise Lifeline program subsidies for phone and broadband service, expand income eligibility to 435% of the federal poverty level, ease provider requirements, and set minimum broadband speed and service standards. Additionally, it establishes an FCC grant program funding nonprofits and community organizations to provide internet safety and digital literacy training.
The bill primarily affects low- and moderate-income individuals and families, students, and Lifeline-eligible consumers, as well as broadband providers, nonprofit organizations, and the IRS and FCC, which would administer the new programs. It responds to data cited in the bill about unequal access to computers and internet service among lower-income and minority students, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bill was introduced in the House on March 26, 2021, and referred to the Committees on Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means. It did not receive a vote and did not advance further in the 117th Congress.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
Computer and Internet Access Equity Act
This bill increases broadband service support for low-income consumers, establishes a grant program to provide internet safety education or training, and provides a tax credit for certain computer and education costs.
Specifically, the bill modifies the broadband service support program known as Lifeline, which assists low-income consumers with access to telecommunications and broadband services, to (1) increase the amount of the payments that a provider of Lifeline services may receive for each low-income consumer to whom the provider supplies such services, (2) allow consumers with higher incomes to qualify for participation in the program, and (3) allow a broadband service provider to receive Lifeline support for providing such service to a low-income consumer without being designated as an eligible telecommunications carrier.
The bill also requires the Federal Communications Commission to establish a grant program to develop and implement internet education and training programs for low-income individuals.
Further, the bill provides a refundable tax credit, not to exceed $2,000 ($4,000 in the case of a joint return) in a taxable year or $10,000 in a lifetime ($20,000 in the case of a joint return), for amounts paid or incurred for computers, printers, and other education-related technology. The Department of the Treasury must establish a program for making advance payments of such credit to eligible individuals.
Timeline
29 Mar 2021
Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 2201 do?
- H.R. 2201, the Computer and Internet Access Equity Act, aims to reduce the "digital divide" by combining tax relief with expanded broadband subsidies and digital-skills training. It would create a new federal tax credit of up to $2,000 per year ($4,000 for joint filers), capped at a $10,000 lifetime total ($20,000 for joint filers), for computer, printer, and related education-technology costs, with the credit phasing out at higher incomes and available as advance payments. It also directs the FCC to raise Lifeline program subsidies for phone and broadband service, expand income eligibility to 435% of the federal poverty level, ease provider requirements, and set minimum broadband speed and service standards. Additionally, it establishes an FCC grant program funding nonprofits and community organizations to provide internet safety and digital literacy training. The bill primarily affects low- and moderate-income individuals and families, students, and Lifeline-eligible consumers, as well as broadband providers, nonprofit organizations, and the IRS and FCC, which would administer the new programs. It responds to data cited in the bill about unequal access to computers and internet service among lower-income and minority students, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was introduced in the House on March 26, 2021, and referred to the Committees on Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means. It did not receive a vote and did not advance further in the 117th Congress.
- Has H.R. 2201 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 2201. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 2201?
- H.R. 2201 was sponsored by Rep. Davis, Danny K. [D-IL-7] (D-IL), with 2 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 2201?
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. (29 Mar 2021).
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