Gov Newsom Signs Digital Equity Bill of Rights

A momentous milestone has been reached in the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable digital society with the passing of the Digital Equity Bill of Rights, which was recently signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA). California has taken a bold step forward in ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background, circumstances or zip code, has fair and equal access to the benefits and opportunities offered by the Digital Age. California is the first state in the nation to make Digital Equity a legal right. The Digital Equity Bill of Rights (AB414), championed and authored by Assembly Majority Leader Eloise Gómez Reyes, 50th Assembly District in San Bernardino County and Inland Empire, and sponsored by the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF), sets forth a framework of commitment that makes it the policy of the State of California to ensure that broadband is sufficient, equitable, accessible, affordable, reliable and ubiquitous for all Californians. Key provisions of the Digital Equity Bill of Rights include universal access, digital literacy, affordable devices, inclusive content and services, and data privacy and security.