New York Launches $15 High-Speed Internet Plan for 58,000 Low-Income Households
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide ultra-fast internet service for just $15 per month to 58,000 low-income households across the state. The program, part of the broader ConnectALL Digital Equity Plan, aims to bridge the digital divide by making high-speed connectivity more accessible and affordable for underserved communities.
The announcement, made on April 28, 2026, builds on New York’s $1 billion ConnectALL initiative, which seeks to transform the state’s digital infrastructure. The $15-per-month plan is designed to ensure that families, students, and workers in economically disadvantaged areas can access reliable internet for education, remote function, and essential services. Governor Hochul emphasized the program’s significance in a statement, calling it a “critical step toward ensuring that every New Yorker has the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.”
This effort comes as part of a larger federal and state push to expand broadband access. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) previously approved New York’s Digital Equity Plan, unlocking $36.8 million in federal funding to support its implementation. The plan outlines strategies to improve digital literacy, provide affordable devices, and enhance online safety—key components in closing the digital gap.
How the $15 Internet Plan Works
The $15-per-month internet service will offer speeds of up to 100 Mbps, sufficient for streaming, video calls, and remote learning. The program targets households that qualify for federal assistance programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Medicaid, or public housing. Eligible residents can apply through a streamlined process managed by the New York State Office of Broadband and Digital Equity.
To ensure affordability, the state is partnering with local internet service providers (ISPs) to subsidize the cost of service. While the exact ISPs involved have not been publicly disclosed, the program aligns with New York’s broader goal of expanding broadband access to 99% of households by 2027. The initiative as well includes provisions for distributing low-cost or free devices, such as laptops and tablets, to further support digital inclusion.
Why This Matters: The Digital Divide in New York
The digital divide—the gap between those with and without reliable internet access—has long been a barrier to economic and educational opportunities. In New York, approximately 1.5 million households lack high-speed internet, with rural and low-income communities disproportionately affected. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these disparities, as students struggled with remote learning and workers faced challenges accessing online job opportunities.
Governor Hochul’s administration has framed the $15 internet plan as a way to address these inequities. “Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity,” Hochul said in her announcement. “This program will help level the playing field for families who have been left behind, ensuring they can participate fully in our digital economy.”
Federal and State Collaboration
The $15 internet plan is part of a larger federal effort to expand broadband access nationwide. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed in 2021, allocated $65 billion to improve internet infrastructure across the U.S. New York’s ConnectALL initiative is one of the first state-level programs to leverage these funds, positioning the state as a leader in digital equity.
The NTIA’s approval of New York’s Digital Equity Plan in 2024 made the state eligible for $36.8 million in federal grants to support its implementation. These funds are being used to expand broadband infrastructure, improve digital literacy programs, and provide affordable devices to residents in need. The $15 internet plan is a direct result of this collaboration, demonstrating how federal and state resources can work together to address critical gaps in connectivity.
Who Benefits and How to Apply
The $15 internet plan is open to households that meet income eligibility requirements or participate in federal assistance programs. Priority will be given to families with school-aged children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Residents can check their eligibility and apply through the New York State Broadband Program Office website.
In addition to the $15 internet service, the program includes digital literacy training to help participants develop the most of their connectivity. Workshops will cover topics such as online safety, basic computer skills, and how to access government services online. These efforts aim to ensure that residents are not only connected but also equipped to use the internet effectively.
What’s Next for New York’s Digital Equity Efforts
The $15 internet plan is just one component of New York’s broader digital equity strategy. The state is also investing in expanding broadband infrastructure in rural areas, where access has historically been limited. Governor Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address included additional proposals to strengthen digital infrastructure, including grants for local governments to improve internet access in underserved communities.
For now, the focus remains on rolling out the $15 internet plan and ensuring that eligible households can take advantage of the program. The New York State Office of Broadband and Digital Equity will continue to monitor the program’s progress and make adjustments as needed to maximize its impact.
Key Takeaways
- Affordable Connectivity: The $15-per-month internet plan offers speeds up to 100 Mbps, making it accessible for low-income households.
- Eligibility: The program targets families enrolled in federal assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or public housing.
- Digital Inclusion: The initiative includes digital literacy training and access to affordable devices to ensure participants can fully utilize the internet.
- Federal Support: The program is funded in part by $36.8 million in federal grants from the NTIA, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
- Broader Goals: The plan is a key component of New York’s $1 billion ConnectALL initiative, which aims to provide broadband access to 99% of households by 2027.
Looking Ahead
The next steps for the $15 internet plan include finalizing partnerships with ISPs and launching a public awareness campaign to ensure eligible households are aware of the program. The New York State Office of Broadband and Digital Equity will provide updates on the program’s rollout through its official website.
As New York continues to lead the way in digital equity, this initiative serves as a model for other states looking to address the digital divide. For residents, it represents a tangible step toward greater economic and educational opportunities.
What do you suppose about New York’s $15 internet plan? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with anyone who might benefit from this program.