§1701 — Title 47 Telegraphs, Telephones, and Radiotelegraphs | U.S. Code

Summary

Says everyone needs affordable, reliable broadband to take part in life. The gap in internet access hurts the U.S. economy and limits access to health care and education. It affects communities of color, low‑income areas, and rural areas. More provider competition can lower costs and improve service. The 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic showed how vital broadband is for work, school, and connection.

Title 47, §1701

Telegraphs, Telephones, and Radiotelegraphs — Source: USLM XML via OLRC

Congress finds the following:

(1)Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States.

(2)The persistent “digital divide” in the United States is a barrier to the economic competitiveness of the United States and equitable distribution of essential public services, including health care and education.

(3)The digital divide disproportionately affects communities of color, lower-income areas, and rural areas, and the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.

(4)In many communities across the country, increased competition among broadband providers has the potential to offer consumers more affordable, high-quality options for broadband service.

(5)The 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic has underscored the critical importance of affordable, high-speed broadband for individuals, families, and communities to be able to work, learn, and connect remotely while supporting social distancing.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title

Pub. L. 117–58, div. F, title III, § 60301, Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 1209, provided that: “This title [enacting subchapter II of this chapter] may be cited as the ‘Digital Equity Act of 2021’.”

§1701 Findings

Summary

Title 47, §1701

Notes & Related Subsidiaries

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title

Citations & Metadata