High-speed internet access is a basic necessity. Too many Americans aren’t connected | Opinion

High-speed internet access

Access to high-speed internet has become increasingly essential, particularly following the transition to remote working and digital learning as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, due to their level of income, many American households are unable to afford the costs of broadband connectivity, hindering not only their ability to get online but also to access all of the essential resources that come with a connection.

Understanding that connectivity is a necessity in today’s world, the Biden Administration helped create the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to assist low-income households with their internet bill, but the program faces an existential threat — its funding will run out in a few months if Congress and the White House do not act.

The Affordable Connectivity Program has been a resounding success to date. Over 21 million American households are enrolled, including over 320,000 in Washington. Through my work in education, I’ve been able to see how this much-needed program has made it possible for students to access the online learning resources they need to get the education they deserve. The program has been particularly effective in communities of color which have disproportionately shouldered the burden of the digital divide, a divide stemming from historical inequities and systemic disparities.

With the ACP expected to run out of funding by 2024, it is encouraging that the White House mentioned the need to extend the program in a recent supplemental funding request to Congress; it is now imperative that both Congress and the Biden Administration find a funding solution for the ACP before it is too late.

Discontinuing funding would risk exacerbating educational disparities and depriving countless young minds of their potential.

Bernal Baca, Executive Director, Mi Centro in Tacoma

Child Tax Credit

This holiday season, too many children in our country face the harsh reality of not having even the basic necessities. Holiday toys and treats are increasingly out of reach when families cannot afford food, housing and warm clothing.

Congress could help by expanding the federal Child Tax Credit. No other tool works better at putting these items back in reach.

Supporting low-income families during this holiday season through giving trees, donations to food banks and toy drives is wonderful — but it only lasts this one season.

A gift that would last longer is contacting your member of Congress in support of expanding the Child Tax Credit.

Jennie Vano, Fircrest

Transit-oriented development

Areas with accessible public transportation provide community — a community not seen in our car-centered society.

Growing up in a rural area, I am acutely aware of the limitations and isolation of life without reliable public transportation. Focusing on affordable transit-oriented development would help promote community and give people opportunities they otherwise wouldn’t be able to access.

Everyone deserves to live in communities that support them and their needs, whether or not they can afford a car. This is an issue that needs to be fixed on a state, regional and city level.

I am calling for state Senator Steve Conway, Rep. Sharlett Mena and Rep. Melanie Morgan to make transit-oriented development a priority in the coming legislative session.

A community that is interconnected, affordable, and one where I don’t have to own a car is where I want to live.

Ava Foley, Tacoma

This story was originally published December 14, 2023 at 1:40 PM.