summary
Introduced
01/23/2026
01/23/2026
In Committee
01/30/2026
01/30/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Creates the Illinois Low Income Broadband Assistance Program Act. Requires the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to establish an Illinois Low Income Broadband Assistance Program (Program) to ensure the availability and affordability of broadband service to low income families in order to access remote learning and work platforms. Provides that the Department shall coordinate with local administrative agencies to determine eligibility for the Program, provided that eligible income shall be no more than 150% of the federal poverty level. Provides that families whose annual household income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level shall be eligible for free broadband service. Provides that a credit of at least $9.95 a month for broadband services shall be payable monthly to: (i) families whose annual household income is above 135% of the federal poverty level but no greater than 150% of the federal poverty level; and (ii) families that include at least one adult person or dependent child who qualifies for or participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the Supplemental Security Income program, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits Programs, and other specified assistance programs. Provides that the $9.95 broadband service credit may be adjusted according to family size. Provides that families who participate in the federal Lifeline program or any other State Internet service subsidy program shall not be eligible to participate in the Illinois Low Income Broadband Assistance Program. Provides bill payment requirements. Provides for the adoption of rules.
AI Summary
This bill establishes the Illinois Low Income Broadband Assistance Program, managed by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), to make broadband internet service more accessible and affordable for low-income families, enabling them to participate in remote learning and work. The program will work with local agencies to determine eligibility, with a general income limit of 150% of the federal poverty level, which refers to poverty guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services based on family size. Families earning at or below 135% of the federal poverty level will receive free broadband service. Additionally, a monthly credit of at least $9.95 will be provided to families earning between 135% and 150% of the federal poverty level, as well as to those with a family member participating in certain federal and state assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program; this credit amount can be adjusted based on family size. However, families already receiving discounts through the federal Lifeline program or other state internet subsidy programs will not be eligible for this new program if they choose to remain in those existing programs. The bill also outlines requirements for bill payments and allows the DCEO to create necessary rules to implement the program.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Rules Committee (on 01/30/2026)
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