After federal investment, supply chain jams and labor shortages still hinder tribal broadband access

In 2020, 18 percent of people living on tribal lands had no way to sign up for broadband internet service, according to the American Indian Policy Institute. That’s compared to 4 percent in the rest of the country. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing broadband disparities on tribal lands in the US. While federal funding has been allocated to address the issue, supply chain issues and labor shortages have slowed progress. The broadband infrastructure on tribal lands is often outdated and underfunded, making it difficult for residents to access online resources and services. Some tribal communities have taken matters into their own hands, establishing their own broadband networks to connect residents. However, challenges such as limited resources, complex regulations, and geographic barriers remain.