tldrdaily.news logo
Tag

Broadband Access

All articles tagged with #broadband access

California ties Verizon-Frontier merger to fiber expansion and DEI oversight
business1 month ago

California ties Verizon-Frontier merger to fiber expansion and DEI oversight

California’s CPUC approves Verizon’s $9.6 billion acquisition of Frontier with conditions to expand fiber to about 75,000 locations over five years, add 250 new 5G/fixed wireless sites, and ensure 88 rural/wallet-friendly wire centers meet 100 Mbps down/20 Mbps up. Verizon must keep a $20/month low-income plan for a decade, audit Frontier’s network, provide backups for copper-to-fiber upgrades, and uphold extensive workforce and supplier-diversity commitments, including a $150 million performance bond and an independent monitor. The move counters FCC pressure to roll back DEI initiatives, with California also securing funding for digital literacy and workforce programs and requiring tribal and small-business protections; merger expected to close around Jan 20, 2026.

via Ars Technica|
#broadband-access#business#cpuc
"Internet Subsidy Program Expiration Threatens Access for Low-Income Americans"
technology1 year ago

"Internet Subsidy Program Expiration Threatens Access for Low-Income Americans"

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has provided crucial support for over 23 million low-income households to afford broadband service, but it is at risk of running out of funds by the end of April. There is a bipartisan push to extend the program, but the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) needs to take urgent action to sustain and expand the Universal Service Fund (USF) to ensure permanent funding for the ACP's subsidy for low-income households. This is essential for addressing the digital divide and ensuring universal and affordable connectivity for all Americans, regardless of economic status or geographic location.

via The Verge|
#affordable-connectivity-program#broadband-access#digital-divide
"Expiration of Federal Internet Subsidy Program"
technology1 year ago

"Expiration of Federal Internet Subsidy Program"

The Affordable Connectivity Program, providing a $30 monthly subsidy for internet service to low-income households, is set to expire at the end of April, potentially impacting 1.7 million Texas households. A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced a bill to extend funding for the program through 2024, but it faces pushback from Republican lawmakers. The termination of the program could jeopardize future broadband investments, particularly in rural areas, where internet service providers are hesitant to invest without a guaranteed customer base. Some communities have found innovative ways to provide affordable internet, but larger providers like Comcast and smaller rural providers express concerns about the financial feasibility of low-cost plans without government support.

via The Texas Tribune|
#affordable-connectivity-program#broadband-access#federal-funding
Astranis Expands Satellite Internet Access to 2 Million in the Philippines
technology2 years ago

Astranis Expands Satellite Internet Access to 2 Million in the Philippines

San Francisco-based company Astranis has signed a deal to provide dedicated satellite internet service to the Philippines, aiming to connect up to 2 million people who currently lack broadband access. The satellite is scheduled to launch in 2024 and will be owned and operated by Astranis. The company's unique approach combines the small form factor of satellites like SpaceX's Starlink with the geosynchronous orbit of traditional players like Viasat, allowing it to cover the entire Philippines with one satellite. This initiative is part of Astranis' mission to bring service to underserved communities globally, with previous projects in Alaska and Peru.

via CNBC|
#astranis#broadband-access#philippines
Federal Funding Brings Massive Boost to Internet Access Across Multiple States
technology2 years ago

Federal Funding Brings Massive Boost to Internet Access Across Multiple States

Alabama is set to receive $1.4 billion from the U.S. Department of Commerce to aid ongoing broadband expansion efforts, benefiting previously unserved or underserved areas. The funding will be used by The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to provide internet service to these areas. Governor Kay Ivey expressed her priority for Alabama to gain full access to high-speed internet, and the announcement marks a significant step towards achieving that goal. ADECA will have 180 days to prepare and submit final plans for the use of the funds.

via WVTM13 Birmingham|
#alabama#broadband-access#funding
Biden's $42 billion plan to connect every home with high-speed internet by 2030
technology2 years ago

Biden's $42 billion plan to connect every home with high-speed internet by 2030

President Biden has announced a $42 billion investment to expand high-speed internet access to the 8.5 million homes and businesses without it, aiming to achieve universal access by 2030. The funds will be allocated to all states and territories, with 19 states receiving over $1 billion each. The timeline includes drafting plans, distributing funds, and beginning work on projects, with some potentially not being completed before the 2024 election. The administration aims to address the digital divide and ensure that underserved communities, including rural and suburban areas, have access to affordable broadband. This initiative is seen as an important part of Biden's reelection campaign to demonstrate progress and address the enthusiasm gap.

via PBS NewsHour|
#biden#broadband-access#digital-divide