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This bill appropriates $3.08 billion for the FCC's "rip and replace" program, which removes Chinese telecommunications equipment from U.S. networks, and increases the total funding limit for that program to $4.98 billion. The legislation also provides $6 billion in fiscal year 2024 funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which helps low-income households pay for broadband internet service. The bill tightens eligibility requirements for the Affordable Connectivity Program by eliminating provider-based verification, restricting eligibility through school lunch programs to schools that don't participate in certain assistance programs, and removing a device subsidy that had provided discounted computers and tablets to eligible households. Additionally, the legislation requires the FCC to implement fraud controls and performance measures within 180 days and directs the FCC to conduct new spectrum auctions for previously offered frequency bands within two years. Existing households receiving benefits as of April 30, 2024, will remain eligible for an additional 180 days under the new rules.

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