We already know that the coronavirus is having a major impact on mobile companies and events, but the pandemic is also going to affect normal people who may get less work because others are staying home. To help keep everyone connected during these times, the FCC this week introduced the Keep America Connected Pledge.
All four of the major US carriers have taken the pledge — AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon — as have US Cellular and TracFone Wireless. Broadband providers like Comcast, Cox, Google Fiber, and CenturyLink have taken the pledge as well.
These companies have pledged to not terminate service of customers who are unable to pay their bill due to the coronavirus for the next 60 days. They'll also be waiving any late fees customers might incur during that time as well as open their Wi-Fi hotspots to anyone who needs them.
"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," said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai. "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."
Here's the full list of companies that have agreed to the Keep America Connected Pledge:
