Equity for the Digital Age: Maryland's Plan

In its draft Digital Equity Plan, the  Maryland Office of Statewide Broadband (OSB) recognizes that digital equity is crucial in today’s interconnected world. Maryland's plan is guided by a vision to achieve equity in the digital age, ensuring that no one is excluded or left behind due to disparities in access, skills, or resources. Broadband access and digital equity are integral to the well-being of the State of Maryland in the 21st century, serving as a linchpin for economic opportunity and community development, offering a pathway to increased innovation, entrepreneurship, and overall prosperity. The State of Maryland envisions a future where every individual, regardless of their location or background, has full access to high-speed internet connectivity and the tools necessary to harness its transformative potential. In this vision, urban and rural communities alike can fully participate in the digital economy. In this vision, comprehensive infrastructure investment will eliminate connectivity gaps, bridging the urban-rural divide and fostering a connected ecosystem that empowers residents, businesses, and governments to thrive in a digital society. In this vision, digital equity goes beyond infrastructure, emphasizing digital literacy and skills development as critical components. Citizens are equipped with the knowledge to confidently navigate the digital landscape, access online resources, and protect their privacy and security. Digital skills training is integrated into educational curricula, workforce development programs, and community initiatives to create an informed and empowered citizenry. Furthermore, the vision envisions targeted support for underserved communities, ensuring that they are not left behind in the digital transformation. The state's plan is open for public comments until tomorrow, December 2, 2023.