These days, so many things depend on being able to communicate with others – from finding information online or scheduling an appointment to calling in sick or looking up homework information. However, one in five New York households have no access to broadband internet services, and millions of our residents lack reliable access to mobile phone services. That digital divide disproportionately affects minorities and low-income New Yorkers.
Since President Trump took office, the Federal Communications Commission has not approved a single new Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) to serve New York residents – even though there are more than 25 ETCs applications waiting.
Shifting authority for approval of new carriers from the Trump Administration back to the New York Public Service Commission will help expand access for New Yorkers and increase the options available to consumers. New York lawmakers overwhelmingly approved this legislation. Now it’s time for Gov. Andrew Cuomo to sign this bill and take back access for all New Yorkers.
Under the Trump Administration, access has been cut
During President Trump’s first year in office, the Lifeline program saw a 17% reduction in funding from the previous year. After he was elected, the qualifying options for low-income families to participate in the program were also restricted. This dangerous trend needs to be stopped before it’s too late.
Minorities are disproportionately burdened by limited connectivity
The reality is that minorities are far more likely to be victimized by discriminatory federal policies that shut down access to essential services. About 27% of Hispanic New Yorkers and 25% of black New Yorkers lack broadband access at home, compared with just 19% of white households.
Access to mobile phones and broadband services is a necessity
In today’s world, going without access to a mobile phone or reliable internet service means you miss many opportunities. The access gap keeps kids from looking up school assignments, parents from contacting employers, and seniors from scheduling doctors appointments. We need to fix this system so it works for everyone — not just the wealthy.
Another Voice: New York needs to take back access to Lifeline wireless
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