Oregon's Plan for Meaningful Broadband Access

The Oregon Broadband Office (OBO) released the state's draft Digital Equity Plan for public comment. Through this plan, OBO continues its work to ensure that all people in Oregon have access to reliable, affordable home broadband internet, an affordable, quality, internet-enabled computing device, digital skills, quality technical support in culturally and linguistically diverse in-community spaces, access to cybersecurity tools and the knowledge needed to stay safe online, and inclusive online content designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation, and collaboration. The draft plan is open for public comment until December 16, 2023. It is the vision of the State of Oregon that all people in Oregon will have access to affordable and reliable high-speed broadband internet to attain positive economic, educational, and health outcomes and to participate in social and civic life. The state’s commitment arises from Oregon’s recognition of the criticality of digital equity to the well-being of the many diverse people of Oregon. Meaningful access to the internet is essential to thriving in the 21st century. Digital equity enables economic opportunity as well as supports educational, healthcare, and civic participation goals.