1. Monthly archive
  2. December 2021

December 2021

New generation of smaller alternative networks in UK are forcing incumbents to increase investment in broadband

There was once a time when the words “fixed line” turned investors cold — as the extraordinary growth of wireless telecoms and mobile data made cabling seem antiquated. Yet, in the age of full-fibre broadband, those tables have turned.  Investors are backing a new generation of smaller, alternative cabled networks — dubbed “alt-nets” — forcing larger incumbents to increase their investment in broadband.

Mayor Scott announces plan to use $35 million of federal money to close Baltimore broadband gap

Mayor Brandon Scott (D-MD) is announcing Baltimore's latest investment with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars: $35 million focused on the administration’s efforts to close the digital divide. Following his early commitment to address digital disparity, the Mayor has continued to champion efforts to close Baltimore’s digital and broadband divide, with nearly 100,000 city households facing barriers to internet access at home — exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Comcast Expands Digital Equity Efforts to Recognize National Veterans and Military Families Month

To help recognize National Veterans and Military Families Month, Comcast announced it would install free WiFi in up to 100 veteran-focused facilities as part of its expanding Lift Zones program. Lift Zones provide free WiFi access outside the home in neighborhood community centers. They complement Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, which provides low-cost broadband to eligible consumers, including veterans, inside the home. Both efforts are part of Project UP, Comcast’s comprehensive, ten year, $1 billion commitment to help build a future of unlimited possibilities.

Sens Wicker and Thune introduce the NTIA Reauthorization and Reform Act

 Sens Roger Wicker (R-MS) and John Thune (R-SD) introduced the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Reauthorization and Reform Act (S.3288). The NTIA Reauthorization and Reform Act would:

 

Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Report November 30, 2021

Information regarding the households participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, including types of services received, support amounts claimed, and demographic details such as geographic locations and Tribal status. 48.53% of program participants qualified because they also participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), 39.7% Medicaid, 20% National School Lunch or Breakfast Program, 11.5% because they demonstrated a household income below 135% of the Federal Poverty level.

Report of the Task Force for Reviewing the Connectivity and Technology Needs of Precision Agriculture in the United States

This Task Force seeks to address the digital divide with recommendations that will advise the federal government on ways it can improve access, specifically on rural, agricultural lands. Broadband is the foundational element for all other issues. The recommendations fall largely within five primary categories with some additional key considerations. The five main priorities that the Task Force recommends are to:

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