To address the digital divide, officials from the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority are prioritising equipping residents with devices and skills as the state prepares to allocate billions in federal funds.

The focus is on ensuring effective internet use, with the draft digital equity plan emphasising input from various groups. The project aims to balance infrastructure development with addressing access, affordability, and digital skills, highlighting the importance of expanded internet access for education, employment, telemedicine, and civic engagement.

Public feedback is sought until Jan. 8 through in-person sessions, online submissions, and printed version requests.

Why does it matter?

Other US states are receiving federal funds from Pennsylvania to address the digital divide. The US Department of the Treasury recently approved$140 million for Wisconsin Wi-Fi, computers, and community facilities. This funding is part of President Biden's Investing in America Agenda, specifically the Capital Projects Fund program, which aims to expand economic opportunities and promote connectivity in underserved communities. In June, the Biden administration allocated funds for the$42.5 billion Broadband, Equity, Accessibility, and Deployment grant program. Texas received the highest allocation, over$3.3 billion, followed by California at$1.9 billion and Missouri at$1.7 billion, with nineteen states awarded more than$1 billion.