Universal Access to Affordable, Reliable Broadband in Kentucky

Kentucky is working to remove barriers to digital adoption by creating opportunities through technology, affordable high-speed internet, and digital skills development for all people and businesses. The goal is to bridge the digital divide and ensure that each citizen can participate in the modern economy and society. Kentucky's affordability strategy leaned heavily on promoting ACP participation by eligible residents and internet service providers (ISPs). Of course, the ACP expired earlier this year due to a lack of funding. Kentucky is also exploring other policy solutions and programs to support low- and no-cost internet subscriptions for eligible households. Part of that approach is adopting a Low-Cost Broadband Service Option and Middle-Class Affordability Plan as part of the state's implementation of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Kentucky will receive $1.1 billion to deploy affordable, high-speed internet to unserved and underserved locations.