Increasing Broadband Affordability

High-speed broadband is an essential utility for Americans to learn, work, access public services, and engage with their government and community. Tens of millions of residents nationwide still lack reliable, high-quality broadband access. Without addressing broadband costs, it is unlikely communities will close the digital divide.
To address immediate service needs, state and local governments can use federal funds to build awareness of existing federal subsidy programs, provide additional complementary subsidies that fully meet local costs, and to map and identify what residents lack access to broadband for further intervention and investments.
Equitable broadband access influences workforce, education, health, and many other outcomes. Residents need access now to recover from financial shortfalls during the pandemic. In addition, if states and local governments want to improve access to public services or equitable engagement with the community, broadband is a necessary tool to reach residents.