Comcast Corp., AT&T Inc. and practically all the other major internet providers in the U.S. have signed onto a Federal Communications Commission initiative to help maintain web access for Americans affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

The Keep Americans Connected Pledge was unveiled by the FCC today. The several dozen telecommunications firms taking part have agreed not to terminate service for consumers or small businesses in the next 60 days, as well as to waive any late fees incurred from the economic effects of the virus. Lastly, providers will open Wi-Fi hotspots to the public.

“As the coronavirus outbreak spreads and causes a series of disruptions to the economic, educational, medical, and civic life of our country, it is imperative that Americans stay connected,” FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said in a statement. “Broadband will enable them to communicate with their loved ones and doctors, telework, ensure their children can engage in remote learning, and — importantly — take part in the ‘social distancing’ that will be so critical to limiting the spread of this novel coronavirus.”

The text of the Keep Americans Connected Pledge also encourages providers to take additional steps beyond the three core points. Several major players have already done so. AT&T on Thursday lifted monthly data caps for customers with capped broadband subscriptions, while Comcast is boosting connection speeds in its Internet Essentials plan for low-income families. 

Charter Communications Inc. followed suit today by pledging to offer free connectivity for two months to households with students. For households that aren’t already customers, the provider is waiving installation fees.

Some policymakers are urging further action. A group of 17 Senators on Thursday issued a letter asking eight major internet providers to unlock unlimited data for all their users, while FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks has called for a 60-day waiver on data caps as well.  

Photo: AT&T