National Strategy Needed to Guide Federal Efforts to Reduce Digital Divide

Broadband internet is increasingly critical for work, school, shopping, and other parts of daily life. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the "digital divide" and the disadvantages for people who don't have access. In its efforts to expand broadband access, the federal government has subsidized investment in rural areas that haven't attracted private investment. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) identified over 100 federal programs—administered by 15 agencies—that could be used to expand access. However, the number of programs has led to a fragmented, overlapping patchwork of funding. GAO recommends synchronizing federal efforts with a national broadband strategy, and more. GAO is making three recommendations, including: (1) that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) identify key statutory limitations to program alignment and develop legislative proposals as appropriate; (2) that the NTIA Administrator should direct the Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth to regularly seek and incorporate user feedback when updating the BroadbandUSA Federal Funding Guide; and (2) that the Executive Office of the President develop and implement a national broadband strategy. NTIA agreed with our recommendations. The Executive Office of the President did not take a position on our recommendation.