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FCC approves $50 monthly internet subsidies for low-income households during pandemic:
The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday approved final rules for a new broadband subsidy program that could help struggling families pay for internet service during the pandemic.
The agency's $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program provides eligible low-income households with up to a $50 per month credit on their internet bills through their provider until the end of the pandemic. In tribal areas, eligible households may receive up to $75 per month. The program also provides eligible households up to $100 off of one computer or tablet.
The congressionally created program is aimed at closing the digital divide, which has become painfully apparent over the past year as millions of Americans have been forced to work and learn remotely. Some have also raised concerns that the digital divide could affect access to the vaccine as signups typically happen online.
[...] Last year, Congress passed a coronavirus relief package that contained provisions for the FCC's new program. And the FCC has established a fresh task force this year to improve the data it collects on broadband availability, which could ultimately help the agency better target its efforts to close the gap.
[...] "This is a program that will help those at risk of digital disconnection," Rosenworcel said in a statement. "It will help those sitting in cars in parking lots just to catch a Wi-Fi signal to go online for work. It will help those lingering outside the library with a laptop just to get a wireless signal for remote learning. It will help those who worry about choosing between paying a broadband bill and paying rent or buying groceries."
(Score: 2) by Immerman on Sunday March 07 2021, @02:08PM (1 child)
Perhaps there've been more recent discoveries, but as I recall genetic evidence suggests that none of the early-wave American peoples have any living descendants - none of their distinctive genetic markers have been found in any modern individual.
What's still not clear is whether the newcomers wiped out the previous waves, or the previous waves had already died out before they arrived. However, the fact that there was apparently no intermixing suggests they had already died out - even the most bloodthirsty invaders tend to at least keep some of the prettiest women.
(Score: 2) by Runaway1956 on Sunday March 07 2021, @03:51PM
Some food for thought.
https://io9.gizmodo.com/did-pacific-islanders-reach-south-america-before-columb-465444995 [gizmodo.com]