Bill > HB1460

This bill aims to close the digital divide in Washington by establishing excise taxes on telecommunications services to fund the expansion of universal service programs. Key provisions include: - Defining important terms like "broadband," "digital equity," and "underserved populations" to provide a common understanding. - Expanding the role and responsibilities of the Governor's Statewide Broadband Office to coordinate broadband deployment and adoption efforts, including assisting with grant applications. - Creating a new "Digital Equity Opportunity Program" to provide grants for community organizations to offer digital skills training, internet access, and other services to low-income and underserved communities. - Establishing a "Digital Equity Planning Grant Program" to fund the development of digital equity plans by local governments and other entities. - Creating a "Washington Digital Equity Forum" to develop recommendations for advancing digital connectivity in the state. - Requiring that grant programs avoid favoring urban areas over rural areas. The bill aims to improve broadband access, adoption, and digital inclusion across Washington, particularly for underserved populations.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1460&Year=2021&Initiative=false