Today’s world is increasingly dependent on the connections made possible by broadband. Without it, people find it difficult, if not impossible, to keep up and get ahead.
Students need wireless broadband access to learn and complete school assignments. Unemployed workers need it to open up job opportunities and communicate with employers. Just as important, our citizens need the emotional and physical security that comes with broadband access – the ability to stay in touch with loved ones, to consult with health care providers, to urgently call for emergency help.
For far too many New Yorkers, these connections are impossible. More than 1.8 million eligible New York households go without Lifeline, the free social welfare program that can bring them access to basic telecommunication services. This essential program was expanded under President Barack Obama, but it has been minimized under the Trump administration.