Upcoming event

Hear from economists, policymakers and funders about opportunities to increase broadband access and from practitioners about supporting both students and teachers in virtual learning.

People in low-income and marginalized communities -- regardless of where they live in the U.S. -- are disproportionately unlikely to have an internet connection at home. Without a home connection, they are unable to work and learn remotely, use telemedicine, access government benefits, and more. Please join Senator Schumer, Whip Clyburn, and the Lifeline Coalition for a Congressional briefing on the problems low-income and marginalized communities face when trying to connect, and the multi-pronged approach Congress should take to address these issues during the pandemic and beyond.

Moderator: Phil Weiser, Colorado Attorney General

Interview with Gigi Sohn on Broadband as a Basic Utility

Following President Biden’s pledge to make digital equity a cornerstone of his administration, our panel will share their insights on the government’s approach to technology policy, and how the Biden-Harris administration can lead on one of the most potentially transformative economic development investments of the century.

I. Welcome
    a. State Superintendent Tony Thurmond
    b. Senator Connie Leyva

II. Opening Comments
   a. Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry
   b. Assemblymember Burke
   c. Assemblymember Garcia
   d. Assemblymember Santiago

III. Bill Proposal Ideas
   a. Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry (5-minutes)
   b. Senator Lena Gonzalez (5-minutes)
   c. Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (5-minutes)

IV. Questions and Answers

As part of his historic $45 billion Rebuild Illinois investment strategy, in 2019 Governor Pritzker included $420 million to expand access to high-speed broadband internet across the state. A critical commitment to closing gaps and expanding opportunity, the Connect Illinois program is central to the Governor’s Five-Year Economic Plan to revitalize and grow the Illinois economy with an emphasis on equitable growth.

Times are Eastern Time.

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

9:45 am. Welcome to a Virtual Conference

10:00 am Paper Sessions (Click here for listing of Papers)

The Federal Communications Commission will host the discussion to provide an opportunity for FCC staff and interested parties to examine proposed actions the FCC should take to establish the program. The FCC is currently receiving comments regarding the program, and this roundtable will provide an additional opportunity to determine the best approach to leverage the funding to help close the digital divide.