Chicago Mayor Extends Free Internet Program for Chicago Public School Students
Chicago has extended its Chicago Connected program through the 2026-27 school year
Digital Inclusion
The effort to ensure that all communities have access to high-speed internet and receive digital skills education. Despite years of federal, state, and local investments, millions of Americans still lack broadband access due to geographic challenges, low population density, and high infrastructure costs.
Digital Inclusion
Study Links Broadband Adoption to Lower 'Time Poverty'
The effect was strongest among women, suggesting that reliable internet access could help reduce everyday logistical burdens
Digital Inclusion
Lifeline Subscribers Rely on Benefit for Healthcare, Employment
A new survey finds great majority of Lifeline subscribers ration data and would lose service entirely without the program
Digital Inclusion
NTIA Begins Process to Revive Digital Equity Grant Program
The program faces a tight timeline for a potential December reopening.
California
California Approves Nearly $32M for Infrastructure, Affordable Housing and Digital Skills
The CPUC approved funds for 10 broadband adoption projects, including digital literacy programs expected to train more than 2,600.
Digital Inclusion
Broadband Adoption Slipping, Researchers Warn Pennsylvania Lawmakers
Cuts to federal benefits could push 233,000 households off broadband, researcher warns.
Digital Inclusion
Digital Equity Suit Paused Until New Funding Notice
NTIA is planning to take applications on reinstated broadband adoption funding in December
Digital Inclusion
Most E-Rate Funds Spent in Highest-Need Areas, Researcher Says
In fiscal year 2024, the program spent 62 percent of funding on broadband subscriptions and 35 percent on networking gear
Digital Inclusion
Commerce Working on New Round of Digital Equity Act Funding
The agency is planning to take applications in December
Expert Opinion
Bruce Kushnick: An Open Letter Calling for a Debate with the Group Digital Progress
The authors propose a debate using the Verizon NY 2025 Annual Report, and other pertinent facts
FCC
FCC Opens Review of Universal Service Administration, Questions USAC’s Future
The agency questions USAC’s processes, expenses, governance structure and long-term role as the Universal Service Fund’s administrator.
Digital Inclusion
Judge Expects Trump Administration to Reinstate Digital Equity Funding
A federal judge struck down one part of the law standing up the program, which a government lawyer has said would allow the program to move forward
Digital Inclusion
Connected Nation Attempts to Set Guinness World Record with 25 Hour LiveStream
The non-profit is seeking to earn the title for 'longest internet literacy live stream’ for its 25th anniversary.
Donald Trump
Maine Connectivity Authority Announces Second Statewide ‘Driving Connections’ Tour
The MCA President will do a three-week tour around the state in his 1984 Volkswagen van to promote digital access in the state
Digital Inclusion
Digital Equity Act Program Can Proceed Without Race Criteria, Trump Attorneys Say
The administration urged the court to rule immediately in NDIA v. Trump, while plaintiffs disputed whether the issue can be resolved at this stage.
Public Private Partnership
Cleveland's Performance-Based Broadband Model Drives Rapid Growth
Tarana's fixed wireless technology and a public-private partnership powered DigitalC's more than 10K-strong Cleveland buildout.
