2021 Policy Roadmap

As we begin 2021, the United States still grapples with the inequities laid bare by the coronavirus pandemic – especially the ever-present digital divide. The SHLB Coalition promotes open, affordable, high-quality broadband for anchor institutions and their communities because these institutions are key to connecting the estimated 42 million Americans without internet access. Community anchor institutions deserve a prominent place in the nation’s broadband policy framework because of their critical role in providing education, healthcare, research, and access to information. SHLB encourages the deployment of broadband networks “to and through” anchor institutions to reach surrounding residential communities. To advance our mission and close the digital divide, SHLB has identified the following policy priorities for 2021.

1. Increase affordable broadband access and adoption through anchor institutions.
2. Develop more accurate and granular broadband mapping data that includes anchor institutions.
3. Strengthen the E-rate program.
4. Increase funding and improve administration of the FCC’s Rural Health Care program.
5. Include higher education in broadband access initiatives.
6. Reform the USF funding mechanism.
7. Promote greater spectrum availability for anchor institutions.
8. Streamline pole attachments and rights-of-way processes.
9. Strengthen broadband infrastructure through anchor institutions.