FCC Demands Repayment of $1.18 Million for Provider Overbilling of Computer Tablets in COVID-Era Programs

The Federal Communications Commission demanded a total of $1.18 million be repaid to American taxpayers by Boomerang Wireless and Assist Wireless for overpayment of reimbursement claims they made and received for connected devices provided to consumers as part of COVID-era connectivity programs. The companies had sought reimbursement of as much as $100 per tablet for devices that were widely available for half that price. The companies have 30 days to pay the full amount to the U.S. Treasury.  Specifically, Boomerang must repay $131,027.10 in Affordable Connectivity Program and $513,608.04 in Emergency Broadband Benefit Program payments, for a total of $644,635.14.  Assist must repay $93,534.66 in ACP and $444,415.72 in EBB payments, for a total of $537,950.38.