Democratic lawmakers this week will use multiple federal programs to bring broadband internet and computers to local parks across the country, closing the digital divide in underserved communities by providing free internet service. A bill was announced with the aim of doing so.
The Parks Technology Act of 2023, introduced by Rep. Danny Davis, D-Ill., aims to foster innovation, increase technology training, and reduce inequality through multiple related internet programs.
“I believe this bill is consistent with the nation’s commitment to promoting innovation, education, and community development,” Davis said in a statement. “If passed, this legislation will help create a more technologically inclusive society and ensure the benefits of progress reach every corner of our community.”
The bill proposes to extend the Federal Communications Commission’s e-toll Internet program to local parks, and Davis said this would extend broadband coverage to outdoor community spaces, similar to existing coverage for schools and libraries. He said this is the key to providing access.
The FCC’s E-Rate program helps schools and libraries across the country access affordable broadband internet and is the government’s largest education technology program.
The bill includes local parks in the U.S. General Services Learning Computer Program, provides access to computer equipment that federal agencies have identified as excess property, and promotes technological advancement and digital literacy in those areas. enable.
The third part of the bill would require the Department of Labor to establish a program to provide grants for skills training programs in local parks to support skills development and to allow local parks that host such programs to receive E-rates. You are required to guarantee that you are eligible for support.
The bill is “an important step in closing the skills gap and promoting education and skills development in our communities,” Davis said. “Extending E-Rate’s support to local parks will turn these spaces into hubs for technology training, creating opportunities to gain skills in areas such as coding, cyber security, digital manufacturing, and more. ”
