Rep. McNerney introduces legislation to close the digital divide
Reps. Jerry McNerney (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY) introduced the Digital Equity Act of 2019 to close gaps in broadband adoption and promote digital skills training. The legislation establishes two $125 million grant programs to promote digital equity nationwide.
“Connectivity is an equalizer—it’s a gateway for opportunity, and it’s imperative for our nation’s economic growth,” said Rep. McNerney. “Yet, there are too many people in my district and across the country who are being left behind because they can’t afford broadband service or they lack the necessary digital skills. We are long overdue for closing gaps in broadband adoption and digital literacy. That’s why the Digital Equity Act is so critical.”
The Senate companion bill was introduced by US Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) earlier this year.
A section-by-section of the bill is available here.
Links:
Rep. McNerney introduces legislation to close the digital divide (US House, Sep. 25, 2019)
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