Coastal’s Post

In a powerful move, the Western Governors’ Association is calling on Congress to redefine and improve broadband access across our region. The current speeds of 25/3 Mbps are simply not enough to support the growing needs of businesses, education, and healthcare. The bipartisan group is advocating for a new standard of at least 100/20 Mbps, scalable to 100 Mbps for both downloads and uploads. This change is crucial for economic and community prosperity, especially in rural areas and on Tribal lands where nearly 28% and 23% of the population, respectively, lack access to these speeds. It’s time for action to reflect the true costs and challenges of deploying broadband in the West and to streamline infrastructure permitting. Let’s unite for a future where every community can flourish in the digital age. https://lnkd.in/e9iR63NK #BroadbandAccess #DigitalEquity

In the fight for better internet, progress often meets resistance. This article from Ars Technica details the rise of shadowy campaigns lobbying against municipal broadband — a sure sign that powerful ISPs see community-driven broadband networks as a threat to their monopolies. With more communities seeing the success of municipal networks delivering affordable high-speed service in places like Ammon, Chattanooga, Fort Collins, and across Utah, the scare tactics of these campaigns are becoming less and less believable. 👏 Thanks to Gigi Sohn, Peggy Schaffer, Christopher Mitchell (quoted in the piece), and many others speaking up for the good of communities across the nation, these dark money tactics are being exposed and challenged, paving the way for a more equitable digital future. Read the piece in full by Jon Brodkin: Municipal broadband advocates fight off attacks from “dark money” groups: https://lnkd.in/em8xHjTW #MunicipalBroadband #InternetAccess #DigitalEquity

The digital divide refers to the gap between people who have access to modern information and communications technology and those that don’t. Sadly, some rural areas lack access to affordable high-speed internet, which is why efforts to expand rural broadband through new fiber networks are vitally important. We actively support advocacy for rural broadband.

As the Federal Communications Commission prepares to reduce its subsidy, millions of Americans face imminent internet disconnect. The Affordable Connectivity Program, a lifeline during the pandemic, is winding down, affecting crucial access for vulnerable populations across the U.S., including approximately 368,000 households in Massachusetts alone. Since its inception in 2021, the ACP has offered a $30 discount on internet services to eligible low-income households, enabling children to learn online, adults to access telehealth services, and families to stay connected. This program is more than a subsidy; it's a bridge over the digital divide that continues to widen in our society. As we approach a critical juncture where funding is set to expire, we must consider the broader implications. Internet access has been declared a human right by the United Nations Human Rights Council, yet as the subsidy reduction begins, nearly 50,000 Boston households will face harsh realities. The average lowest cost of broadband in Massachusetts varies significantly, with prices as high as $80 in some areas, posing a significant barrier to access. This isn't just about connectivity; it's about maintaining the basic dignity and functionality of thousands of lives. We need to amplify our voices to ensure those affected aren't left in digital darkness. What can we do to advocate for continued support and funding of such essential programs? Can local initiatives fill the gap left by federal funding cuts? Let's discuss how we can support our communities in securing internet access as a basic right. Your insights are valuable—share your thoughts and potential solutions below. Link to full article: https://lnkd.in/g6yVEJcU #DigitalDivide #BroadbandAccess #PublicPolicy #CommunitySupport #DigitalEquity

Navigating better connectivity presents challenges of all sorts. The political aspect of it is probably one of the most difficult to navigate because of how incumbents and their lobbyists handle things. I have said it multiple times but the amount of money spent on these campaigns could have connected millions of residents and businesses to better internet. That is just sad and shows the focus is on the bottom line not improving customers lives. Let’s keep working to change this narrative. #itsalwaysfeasible

Don't miss these first-hand accounts of the limitations presented by the #digitaldivide. We salute Pew Broadband Access Initiative's goal to ensure universal broadband. We work every day to provide the reliable and affordable internet access everyone deserves. https://lnkd.in/gQkE4wAX

Bulk billing is helping expand affordable, high-speed #internet access to more underserved and unserved communities nationwide, but don’t just take our word for it. Read what 51 Mayors had to say about the benefits of bulk: https://lnkd.in/enwXNHUy

🚨Unlock Broadband Expansion NOW! 🚨 The success of broadband growth depends on efficient local permitting! Here’s why: - 🏗️ $42.45 billion from BEAD hinges on streamlined permits - ⏳ Avoid bureaucratic delays - 🚀 Focus on shovel-ready & last-mile projects - 💡Minimize government interference, maximize market efficiency - 🤝 Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) Local governments, be partners, not competitors. Reform processes to get high-speed internet to underserved communities faster. 🌐 Find out more: Mountain States Policy https://lnkd.in/gQrEavUi #BroadbandExpansion #PermittingReform #DigitalDivide #PublicPrivatePartnerships #BEADFunding #TechAdvocacy #HighSpeedInternet

Check out this article and more written by myself for Broadband Breakfast!

Nowadays, it’s a necessity to have a quality internet connection according to Brent Beal, government affairs director for Brightspeed. “Connectivity, truly, it can be a life-saving and a life-changing thing for communities,” Beal said. Read the full story about how we're expanding our fiber network service in Dothan, AL from WTVY News 4 at: https://bit.ly/4dBZ1iL. #internetforall #fiberbroadband #DothanAL