What's on the agenda for policymakers.
Agenda
Can Smartphones Bridge the Digital Divide? The Answer Is Complicated
Aldo Soledad relies on his phone's data plan to take care of his internet needs. When it comes to living without home internet, he isn't alone. Millions of Americans are without broadband, either because of a lack of access or because they can't afford it.
Federal internet benefits at risk in Connecticut. Could a state bill fill in gaps?
Connecticut has been building its digital infrastructure to get more households online. Those efforts rely on federal funding to help the state address these gaps, particularly in places with limited access to affordable high-speed internet. But a federal program reducing monthly internet bills and providing device subsidies for lower-income households will sunset at the end of April if Congress does not renew funding.
Cox Continues Commitment to Digital Equity with Low-Cost Internet as Federal Government ACP Closes
The projected end of the federal government's ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) will leave many low–income households looking for affordable internet options. Nearly 23 million people nationwide rely on the $30 subsidy ($75 for tribal land) to defray the cost of internet service or secure internet service for free.
Cybersecurity is top of mind for regulators and tech companies as cyberattacks are on the rise with hackers harvesting sensitive data, attacking digital supply chains and using AI to curate advanced threats. At the same time, small and medium-sized businesses often find themselves unprepared to fend off major cybersecurity threats, putting entire systems at risk.
Conversations with policy and industry leaders about efforts in the public and private sectors to bridge the digital divide.
Speakers
Jessica Rosenworcel
Chair, Federal Communications Commission
Nicol Turner Lee
Director, Center for Technology Innovation, Brookings Institution
Aneesh Chopra
President, CareJourney
A hearing to consider the following legislation and presidential nominations including:
Reactions to the FCC's Reinstatement of Title II Classification of Broadband and Net Neutrality Protections
Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said, "Broadband is now an essential service. Essential services, the ones we count on in every aspect of modern life, have some basic oversight. So let's be clear about what we are doing today. This agency, the nation's leading communications authority, believes every consumer deserves Internet access that is fast, open and fair.
How the FCC Can Safeguard Broadband Affordability Initiatives Without Rate Regulation
On April 25, the Federal Communications Commission will vote to reinstate the net neutrality rules and resume real regulatory oversight over broadband. It is critical that the text of this reinstated regulatory framework does not inadvertently undermine its own objectives in regards to broadband affordability.
Five Facts About Net Neutrality Protections
Here are five reasons why we need net neutrality protections restored and why the Federal Communications Commission’s proposed Title II reclassification brings back its ability to provide necessary oversight to this essential service:
A three-day summit in Chicago.
5x5 unites leading experts involved in emergency communications technology, including public safety personnel, industry leaders, technology researchers, innovators, and government officials. 5x5 is a collaborative experience focused on exchanging technical lessons learned, spreading new ideas and sparking conversations.