Experts Urge Federal Leaders to Support State Progress in Closing the Digital Divide

State broadband programs are allowing communities to access telehealth, work remotely, and learn from home

Speeches and Testimony Read time:
Projects: Broadband Access
Support State Progress in Closing the Digital Divide

America is slowly reopening, but even in our “new normal,” social distancing and remote engagement will remain standard practice—and the need for high-speed, reliable internet access has never been clearer. Broadband is a necessary tool to ensure all Americans can stay connected to jobs, news and information, health care services, online classrooms, and other essential services.

Federal leaders have a unique opportunity to support broadband expansion during this critical time. In a letter sent to congressional leaders on May 27, experts from The Pew Charitable Trusts asked national lawmakers to consider the advancements states have made in bridging the broadband gap. They also highlighted what federal leaders can learn from state initiatives, explained how federal support can facilitate the progress of state efforts, and identified emerging trends that Congress may want to consider. Read the full text of the letter below.

Downloads Pew Letter to Congress Supporting Broadband Expansion (PDF)
Downloads Pew Letter to Congress Supporting Broadband Expansion (PDF)
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Kathryn de Wit Project Director
Broadband Access Initiative
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Article May 29, 2020

Who's Not Online in America Today?

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Broadband
Article May 29, 2020

Having access to reliable, high-speed internet is not a reality for many millions of people across the United States. With so many of Americans’ day-to-day tasks—such as learning and working—relying on broadband access, what are communities doing to get more people connected?

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Fact Sheet May 26, 2020

Key Elements of State Broadband Programs

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Broadband
Fact Sheet May 26, 2020

Key Elements of State Broadband Programs

States play a crucial role in efforts to expand broadband to the millions of Americans who still lack access to this vital service. Nearly all states have responded to the growing demand for reliable, high-speed internet by creating broadband offices or designating responsibility for broadband to a state agency, task force, or council.

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