With federal program providing discounted internet set to expire, Rep. Scott calls for continued funding

Millions of Americans at Risk of Losing Access to Discounted Internet

According to the latest data from the White House, one in seven Virginia households and one in five North Carolina households are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides discounted internet under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. However, this program is set to expire this month, putting millions of Americans at risk of losing access to affordable internet.

The Importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The ACP aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, including:

1. SDG 4: Quality Education – Access to high-speed internet allows school children to do homework and access educational resources online.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Internet access enables people to access medical care and telehealth services.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Employers can hire people and individuals can find job opportunities online.
4. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Access to high-speed broadband fosters economic growth and innovation.

It is crucial to continue the ACP to ensure that these SDGs are met and that all individuals have equal opportunities for education, healthcare, employment, and economic growth.

Efforts to Extend the Program

Congressman Bobby Scott, along with other Virginia lawmakers such as Congresswomen Jen Kiggans and Jennifer McClellan, has been advocating for the extension of the ACP. In a letter to the House Committee on Appropriations, they requested additional funding for the program, emphasizing the necessity of high-speed internet in today’s digital world.

Hampton Roads residents have expressed their hope that Congress will extend the program, citing the significant impact it has on their lives. For many, the cost of internet access is a barrier, and the ACP provides a much-needed solution.

Partial Discounts and State Initiatives

While full program funding will end this month, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that some households may still receive a partial discount in May. This temporary relief highlights the importance of finding long-term solutions to ensure affordable internet access for all.

At the state level, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s spokesperson has stated that the state is actively working to expand broadband access through innovative solutions. The goal is to bridge gaps in affordability and adoption, ensuring that high-speed broadband becomes accessible to all Virginians and reaches underserved communities for economic growth.

Conclusion

Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity for individuals and communities to thrive in today’s digital age. The Affordable Connectivity Program plays a vital role in achieving the SDGs related to education, health, employment, and economic growth. It is essential for Congress to extend the program and secure funding to ensure that millions of Americans can continue to benefit from discounted internet access.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the internet in least developed countries by 2020.
   • Indicator 9.c.1: Proportion of population covered by a mobile network, by technology.

2. SDG 4: Quality Education

   • Target 4.b: By 2020, substantially expand globally the number of scholarships available to developing countries, in particular least developed countries, small island developing States and African countries, for enrolment in higher education, including vocational training and information and communications technology, technical, engineering and scientific programmes, in developed countries and other developing countries.
   • Indicator 4.b.1: Volume of official development assistance flows for scholarships by sector and type of study.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex and disability.

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets identified are:
– Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the internet in least developed countries by 2020.
– Target 4.b: By 2020, substantially expand globally the number of scholarships available to developing countries, in particular least developed countries, small island developing States and African countries, for enrollment in higher education, including vocational training and information and communications technology, technical, engineering and scientific programs, in developed countries and other developing countries.
– Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
– Indicator 9.c.1: Proportion of population covered by a mobile network, by technology.
– Indicator 4.b.1: Volume of official development assistance flows for scholarships by sector and type of study.
– Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and disability.

These indicators can help track the progress made in increasing access to information and communications technology, expanding scholarships for higher education, and promoting social and economic inclusion.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators