Digital Equity

Plus, the FCC is taking steps to update broadband data collection, more states have had their initial proposals for BEAD funding approved, Oakland got a grant to expand broadband infrastructure, and more.

From abolishing the U.S. Department of Education to cutting Title I funding and certifying teachers based on ideology, a controversial proposal from a conservative think tank would upend public education nationwide.

Plus, initial proposals for BEAD program funding have been approved in two more states, findings from a new report emphasize the role libraries play in bridging the digital divide, and more.

The list of potential uses for any leftover BEAD funding includes digital equity, and one state has a plan that would direct the money toward the work for years to come.

The New York State Office for the Aging is giving older adults more options to connect with each another and the world by providing them with a variety of technologies — and the skills they need to use them.

Plus, Massachusetts has added three members to its digital accessibility board, a federal resource on digital literacy aims to support community needs, and more.

Plus, the USDA is providing $25 million for rural broadband; Pennsylvania offers $20 million worth of devices; Raleigh, N.C., gets a state grant; and more.

A Digital Champion grant will allow Haywood Community College in North Carolina to develop curriculum for local education sites and hire a full-time digital navigator to provide digital literacy skills for the community.

Artificial intelligence tools trained on non-representative data have the potential to exacerbate inequities in the education system, unless developers train better ones and educators are strategic about using them.

The grants range between $75,000 and $150,000 each, and they are spread out between 10 different cities across the country, many of which are working to boost digital skills training.

Two local governments have taken steps to make residents aware of their digital rights. Experts argue that cities actually have a responsibility to do so.

The state has brought together agency staff to figure out ways to make its website and digital services more accessible to people with disabilities. The work reflects wider trends in gov tech, including public safety.

Plus, more initial proposals for BEAD funding have been approved, census data reveals insights on the digital divide, and more.

Some 75 percent of low-income residents in Philadelphia, for example, say that they cannot afford to pay more than $21 a month for a broadband subscription.

Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration overhauled its computer-based learner’s permit tests, and passing scores increased within months. Data obtained by Government Technology details the secret to their success.

Many rural families are having to make do with mobile hotspots, while a recent report by the Legislative Auditor's Office show some planned broadband projects have yet to enter the construction phase.

Plus, Indiana is getting more than $81 million in broadband funding, new research suggests AI is directly related to digital equity, and more.

The pandemic sparked billions of dollars worth of fraud in unemployment and other areas. Now the federal agency and its partners want to find ways to reduce crime while also easing access for people who need assistance.