Marketplace All-in-One FCC cuts expansion to broadband, hotspot access
Oct 15, 2025
Nicole Turner-Lee, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution and author of "Digitally Invisible," dives into the implications of the FCC's recent decision to cut funding for Wi-Fi on school buses and library hotspot lending. She highlights how this move threatens to widen the digital divide for marginalized communities, emphasizing the critical role these services play for students, veterans, and families. Turner-Lee argues that many local programs may struggle to survive without federal support, raising urgent questions about digital equity and access.
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Rollback Risks Widening The Digital Divide
- The FCC rescinded Biden-era subsidies for Wi‑Fi on school buses and library hotspot lending, reversing an expansion of the E‑rate program.
- Nicol Turner Lee warns this rollback disproportionately harms low‑income, rural, and marginalized communities who rely on mobile access.
E‑Rate Expansion Targeted The Homework Gap
- Jessica Rosenworcel expanded E‑rate to support connectivity outside school buildings to address the 'homework gap.'
- Turner Lee says that outside‑of‑school access helped students finish assignments and engage digitally beyond school hours.
Library Lending Benefits Many Community Needs
- Library hotspot lending served many beyond students, including veterans and small business owners needing private, off‑hours connectivity.
- Turner Lee emphasizes that community shared access expands economic and health participation for multiple groups.
