The Road to Broadband for All: Internet as a Public Good and Civil Right: A Small Scale Survey

In an era where internet access is as essential as water and electricity, many residents in Los Angeles remain digitally left behind due to rising costs, poor service quality, and discrimination. This report delves into the growing movement for publicly owned internet services, highlighting successful municipal broadband for all initiatives across the nation. These initiatives have proven effective in increasing access, lowering costs, and fostering stronger community engagement. With Los Angeles at a crossroads, the report examines how adopting municipal broadband could ensure equitable internet access for all, positioning the internet as a fundamental utility and bridging the digital divide. Additionally, the report shines a light on the impact of the discontinuation of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Through the survey, a noticeable correlation was found between ACP participation and reported difficulties in accessing the internet following the program’s termination.