WASHINGTON, D.C. — To bridge the digital divide and expand internet access across Pennsylvania, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced a $20 million allocation from the Capitol Projects Fund, a provision of the American Rescue Plan. This funding aims to distribute laptops, tablets, desktop computers, and wi-fi devices to approximately 12,000 Pennsylvanians annually.
“As our world becomes more digital, closing the digital divide in our communities is more important than ever,” said Senator Casey. He emphasized the crucial role of reliable high-speed internet in shaping Pennsylvania’s economic future, adding that it impacts every aspect of life, from education to business growth to maintaining personal connections.
The “digital divide” refers to the gap between individuals who have access to computers and the internet and those who do not. It’s a disparity that has been brought into sharp focus amid the coronavirus pandemic, as many aspects of daily life – work, school, healthcare, and social interactions – have moved online.
Senator Casey has been a vocal advocate for narrowing this divide, ensuring that every Pennsylvanian can access high-speed internet. Over the past two years, he has secured over $2 billion to bolster high-speed internet infrastructure in the state. This includes $1.16 billion from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act targeted at high-cost, unserved, and underserved communities, along with a specific $20 million allocation for the Southern Alleghenies region.
In addition to the recent $20 million funding, Casey has also earmarked $200 million from the Capitol Projects Fund to extend high-speed internet access to more than 44,000 homes and businesses across Pennsylvania, with a particular emphasis on rural communities.
The American Rescue Plan has provided $279 million to Pennsylvania for critical projects, including the development of reliable, affordable broadband infrastructure. Coupled with funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, these programs are instrumental in delivering high-speed internet to those without access, reducing costs for those who cannot afford it, and ensuring that businesses remain competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.
The $20 million funding is a significant step towards bridging Pennsylvania’s digital divide, providing not just hardware but also the opportunity for residents to participate fully in an increasingly digital world. From young mothers seeking higher education to small businesses exploring new markets to grandparents connecting with their grandchildren, thousands of Pennsylvanians stand to benefit from this initiative.
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