Bill > HB1723

This bill aims to close the digital equity divide by increasing the accessibility and affordability of telecommunications services, devices, and training. Key provisions include: - The development of a state digital equity plan by the statewide broadband office, in consultation with the digital equity forum and other stakeholders, to leverage federal funding and identify measurable objectives for promoting digital equity among underserved communities. - The creation of a digital equity opportunity program to provide grants for training, device access, internet connectivity, digital literacy, and technical support, especially targeting low-income individuals, seniors, people with disabilities, non-English speakers, and other underserved populations. - The establishment of a digital equity planning grant program to fund the development of digital equity plans for local communities. - The creation of a digital equity account to receive public and private funding for the digital equity opportunity and planning grant programs. - The requirement for the statewide broadband office to coordinate outreach efforts to hard-to-reach and low-income communities about broadband assistance programs. The overarching goal is to expand access to affordable high-speed internet, internet-enabled devices, and digital skills training to enable full participation in modern society, the economy, and civic life for all Washingtonians.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1723&Year=2021&Initiative=false