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HB 4561

LOW INCOME BROADBAND PROGRAM

104th Regular Session

Illinois HB 4561 creates a low-income broadband subsidy program to expand internet access for economically disadvantaged households and reduce the digital divide.

Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Aarón M. Ortíz
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Bill Summary · HB 4561

Legislative bill overview

HB 4561 establishes a Low Income Broadband Program in Illinois designed to provide internet access subsidies or direct broadband services to low-income households. The bill was recently filed and would create a framework to address the digital divide by ensuring economically disadvantaged residents have affordable connectivity to essential online services.

Why is this important

Broadband access has become critical for education, employment, healthcare, and civic participation, yet millions of low-income Americans lack reliable internet. In Illinois, this gap disproportionately affects rural areas and economically disadvantaged urban communities, limiting economic mobility and access to essential services. Such a program could reduce inequality and improve educational and employment outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and cost: Unclear whether the program would be state-funded, federally-funded, or require cost-sharing with internet service providers, and at what total cost to taxpayers
  • Provider participation requirements: Whether broadband companies would be mandated to participate or offered incentives, potentially affecting service quality and profitability
  • Eligibility criteria and administration: Questions about income thresholds, application processes, enrollment capacity, and which agency would manage the program's operations and oversight

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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