To Narrow the Digital Divide, the FCC Should Not Simply Extend Lifeline to Broadband

American Enterprise Institute White Papers, Forthcoming

Boston College Law School Legal Studies Research Paper No. 396

10 Pages Posted: 7 Apr 2016

Date Written: March 31, 2016

Abstract

As more activities move online, it is becoming increasingly important to narrow the digital divide by helping those who cannot afford Internet access.

The FCC’s $2.25 billion proposal to expand the Lifeline telephone assistance program into a monthly broadband subsidy is unlikely to narrow the digital divide.

Congress should adopt a comprehensive approach that encompasses digital literacy outreach programs and low-cost equipment plans as well as monthly service plan subsidies.

Suggested Citation

Lyons, Daniel, To Narrow the Digital Divide, the FCC Should Not Simply Extend Lifeline to Broadband (March 31, 2016). American Enterprise Institute White Papers, Forthcoming, Boston College Law School Legal Studies Research Paper No. 396, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2758888

Daniel Lyons (Contact Author)

Boston College - Law School ( email )

885 Centre Street
Newton, MA 02459-1163
United States

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