FCC set to propose $1.7b plan to offer poor families subsidized internet access

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to propose a $1.7 billion plan to offer subsidized broadband internet access to low-income families. The New York Times reports that FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler will outline the plan today. It involves making changes to Lifeline, a 30-year-old government program which helps poor Americans pay their phone bills. According to senior officials, Wheeler will suggest giving recipients a choice of subsidized phone service, internet access or a mixture of both. Lifeline is funded through a levy on landline and cellphone customers, but is not without controversy. Three men were charged last year with allegedly perpetrating…

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