America’s digital divide is an emergency

Far too many Americans are cut off from access to affordable high-speed Internet even as more of our core systems go digital. Unchecked, the result will be an America even more unequal than the one we see today. The United States has failed in the equitable delivery of this public good. The disparity will almost certainly lead to further inequity. No American should suffer the indignity of searching for Internet. Starbucks WiFi is not a social safety net.

Competition is key. As the Free Press reported, “Inadequate choice and competition among providers is one of the factors that results in entire market segments and demographic groups being underserved or unserved at a reasonable price. ”Congress must also pass sweeping legislation, on par with the greatest infrastructure initiatives in our nation’s history, that treats broadband as essential infrastructure and ensures affordable Internet in every American household. The House Democratic Plan to Connect All Americans to Affordable Broadband Internet, an $80 billion proposal put forward in April, is a good start.

The Internet was founded to connect. As access to America’s fundamental systems and basic rights moves online, now is the time to bridge the divide. As the events of 2020 have made clear, a quality Internet connection isn’t optional. Providing one to all Americans is a necessity.