PK, Next Century Cities Urge Congress Tackle Broadband Issues

Communications Subcommittee hearing. National Urban league Senior Vice President-Advocacy and Policy Joi Chaney and Phoenix Center Chief Economist George Ford also will testify (see 2105040062). Their written testimony wasn’t available Wednesday. “The high cost of broadband is one of the primary reasons why the United States has such a staggering digital divide,” Lewis says. “Congress must take steps to increase competition in the marketplace, which will reduce prices. However, even with lower prices, some of our nation’s most vulnerable will still be unable to afford this critical service. For this reason, Congress must create a long-term benefit” to succeed the $3.2 billion FCC emergency broadband benefit (see 2012220061). A “long-term emergency broadband benefit must continue the EBB’s legacy of broad consumer eligibility, should provide enough funding to enable consumers to access service that meets their needs, and should guarantee that all eligible consumers complete enrollment by promoting automatic verification of identity and eligibility,” Lewis says. “Congress should also require any entity receiving federal funding to offer a low-cost option for anyone.” Ochillo urges lawmakers to consider nontraditional network models to ensure a comprehensive affordability strategy, including municipal networks. Muni broadband has "some of the fastest speeds and highest quality connectivity in the nation while making prices readily transparent, selling service in symmetrical tiers, and maintaining affordability programs for low-income residents,” she says. “Publicly owned WiFi and mesh networks also fill important gaps.” The Computer & Communications industry Association praised House Communications for tackling broadband affordability and equity.