Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that schools and libraries in Alabama’s 7^th District can apply now through October 13^th for additional funding from the American Rescue Plan’s Emergency Connectivity Fund to increase broadband services. Local schools and libraries can learn more about eligibility and apply here.

“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact Alabama’s schools and institutions of learning, access to reliable high-speed internet remains critical to the success of our students,” said Rep. Sewell. “I was proud to help make this relief available through the American Rescue Plan and I urge schools and libraries to take advantage of this funding to ensure our students have the resources they need to thrive.”

The Emergency Connectivity Fund Program, created by the American Rescue Plan and overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will reimburse schools and libraries for the reasonable costs of eligible equipment and broadband connections used to help students, staff, and patrons who otherwise lack access to be able to engage in remote learning. Alabama already applied for $62,677,788.77 from the Emergency Connectivity Fund during the first application filing period this summer. The FCC expects to grant up to the full request pending a final review of those applications. Now, due to high interest in the program and additional funding still available, the FCC has opened a second application filing window for Alabama to request additional funds now through October 13^th.

Click here to learn more about the FCC’s Emergency Connectivity Fund.