Read the article
Key Points:
- Internet Access as a Human Right: The United Nations recognized internet access as an essential human right in 2016. However, the U.S. lags behind in ensuring marginalized groups, including communities of color, have access to this right.
- Telehealth and Internet Access: Telehealth has become crucial for healthcare delivery, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, disparities in internet access persist. Approximately 43% of low-income Americans lack broadband internet, and 40% of adults aged 65 and older do not have smartphones.
- The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): The ACP, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to bridge the gap in internet access. It provides subsidies of up to $30/month for lower-income households (or $75/month for tribal lands) and a one-time $100 subsidy for a computer. Roughly 12.9 million American households have enrolled in the program, but approximately 38 million eligible households remain