Ban on bulk billing will erode internet access for the poor in our community| Opinion

As a lifelong educator in the vibrant city of North Miami, I’ve always believed in the power of community to uplift and support its members.

From guiding young minds in the classroom to advocating for the needs of our diverse residents as mayor, my journey has been defined by a deep commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity for all.

In our city of nearly 60,000 residents, access to high-speed internet at affordable prices has become an indispensable cornerstone of what enables our residents to thrive.

I know I’m not alone when I say the bipartisan broadband investments made under the Biden administration have equipped mayors across the county, including myself, with the critical support needed to ensure more of the residents I represent have the connectivity required for today’s world.

By now, it’s clear that broadband connectivity is not just about scrolling and streaming – it’s about being fully connected to access critical information, work, remote learning and telehealth. That’s why the administration’s bold pledge to ensure all Americans have broadband access by 2030 is so imperative.

But I have serious concerns that a recent proposal from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ban bulk billing arrangements for broadband not only undermines our ability to achieve the goal of universal connectivity in 2030 but also threatens to unravel the incredible work made across the country over the past few years to get millions of Americans online.

Bulk billing arrangements are agreements typically between service providers and homeowner associations, condominium associations and apartment buildings.

In these arrangements, the service provider agrees to take on the expense and labor related to providing internet connectivity to the multi-dwelling living environment, and the other party agrees to contract for the internet connectivity through the provider, resulting in discounted rates for the end users.

Bulk billing agreements allow residents living in these communities to access these essential services at significantly more affordable prices, often up to 50 percent less than what a resident would pay for the same services individually.

For many of our residents, these arrangements are more than just a way to save on monthly bills — they’re a lifeline, ensuring that every family, regardless of income, can stay connected and informed in an increasingly digital world. I’ve seen firsthand the impact of these arrangements on our community.

From the single parent striving to provide educational opportunities for their children to the senior citizen on a fixed income seeking connection and companionship, bulk billing has been a source of stability and support for countless families in North Miami.

But beyond the tangible benefits, these arrangements have a deeper significance. They represent our community’s collective strength and resilience — a testament to what we can achieve when we come together to advocate for the common good.

In North Miami, bulk billing empowers us to negotiate fair terms and ensure that essential services are accessible to all.

As a recent municipal appointee to the FCC’s Intergovernmental Advisory Committee, it’s clear to me that this proposal, while well-intentioned, would have an unintended adverse effect on the millions of Americans, including seniors and students who have secured better broadband deals through their respective bulk billing contracts.

I strongly urge the FCC to reconsider this proposal and recognize the indispensable role that bulk billing arrangements play in promoting affordability, broadband accessibility and inclusivity in our community.

There are more narrowly focused solutions the government can implement. It is critical that the FCC does not simply throw the proverbial baby out with the bathwater.

Bulk billing arrangements are part of what makes the internet affordable to millions, especially for residents in Homeowner Associations (HOAs) and Condominium Association (COAs) who have negotiated these contracts for the good of their community.

I ask that the FCC not impede the historic progress we’ve made on digital equity with its ill-advised proposal to ban bulk billing for broadband and cable services.

Alix Desulme is the mayor of North Miami.