Bridging the Digital Divide: Policy Proposals to Increase Broadband Access for All

In a series of convenings beginning last spring, the NewDEAL Forum's Broadband Task Force brought together state and local policymakers who are making progress in closing the digital divide, along with advocates and other nonprofit and private sector leaders with expertise in improving access, adoption, and digital skills attainment. The initiatives outlined in this report, which constitute a selection of policy efforts drawn from those discussions, provide a blueprint for how other states and cities can tackle their broadband needs and inequities with new federal funds. Read on for case studies about improving mapping and data collection, building out new broadband networks, tackling rural connectivity, improving K-12 student access, expanding access to telehealth, and supporting digital skills training.