Funding
Lawmakers and GAO Call for National Strategy to Address ‘Fragmented’ Broadband Programs
The GAO report identified 25 different broadband-focused funding programs, but some lawmakers argued that all are important.
Broadband Live
Broadband Breakfast on June 7, 2023 – Affordable Connectivity Fund (Special Town Hall Edition)
This special “town hall” will address the strong desire from many in the broadband world to see the Affordable Connectivity Fund renewed.
BBC
Public-Private Partnership Provides Access and Affordability Solutions in Brownsville
In 2014, Brownsville was ranked as the worst-connected city in the United States.
Expert Opinion
Joel Thayer and Diane Holland: We Need the Affordable Connectivity Program!
Keeping American families and veterans connected is too important to allow the ACP to lapse.
Funding
$92 Million For Broadband Through Connect Maryland’s State Funding
The funding is through Connect Maryland, part of the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development.
Education Department
Digital Learning is Here to Stay, Necessitating Multi-Sector Collaboration: Connected America Conference
The pandemic heightened the urgency of closing the digital divide, but several barriers remain.
Expert Opinion
Jessica Dine: Broadband Networks Are Doing Well, Time to Shift to Adoption Gap
There is a perennial policy debate over why the digital divide exists and what to do about it.
IIJA
State Broadband Offices Should Emphasize Adoption and Sustainability
Without efforts to drive adoption, federal investment in connectivity will fall short, agreed Brookings panelists.
BDC
Innovation Fund Consultation Launched, Broadband Mapping for Apartments, Digital Discrimination Clarity
Comments on the $1.5B fund are due January 27, 2023.
FCC
FCC December Agenda, Biden to Visit TSMC plant, Weak Economy Presents Cyber Problem
The December meeting includes digital discrimination prevention, phone service accessibility, and satellite application processes.
Expert Opinion
Bjorn Capens: Strong Appetite for Rural Broadband Calls for Next Generation Fiber Technology
The first operator to bring fiber to a community creates a significant barrier to entry for competitors.
Infrastructure
Anniversary of Infrastructure Act, Gigi Sohn Has a Real Shot at FCC, West Haven Approves Utopia
It is exactly one year since the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act became law.
FCC
Starlink Should Prevail in RDOF Challenge, Says Tech Think Tank
TechFreedom argued that the FCC overstated the flaws of Starlink’s network.
Expert Opinion
Johnny Kampis: Wireless Survey Shows 5G’s Role in Closing Digital Divide
5G has experienced a quantum leap in growth since it first began rolling out in 2018.
Digital Inclusion
Libraries in Position to Help Promote Federal Programs, Improve Digital Literacy: Library Rep
Libraries can act as gateways to ensure community members know about their broadband subsidy options.
Infrastructure
Fiber Broadband Association Brings Regional Fiber Connect Shows on Road
Regional Fiber Connect conferences are bringing the industry’s technology and community leadership together.
