Students are still struggling to get internet. The infrastructure bill could help

In many parts of the country, access to a strong internet connection isn't a given. The Hope Center at Temple University reported in March that about 40% of college students have struggled with internet or computer access during the pandemic. The real number may be much higher: The report noted that, because the research relied on student responses from an online survey, "inadequate internet access could have contributed to low response rates." But help is on the way. The newly passed infrastructure bill, which President Biden is expected to sign on Nov 15, includes $65 billion for improving broadband. The majority of that money goes toward creating access and improving speed. It's poised to help students across the country, especially those living in rural areas and tribal communities. Of that, $2 billion is set aside for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, a federal grant program. University of Virginia Professor Christopher Ali is hopeful the bill will help reframe the way we think about the internet. "It's no longer a luxury, but let's start thinking about it as infrastructure, as essential as a paved road or a sewer system."