Assemblymember Boerner Proposes Broadband Internet Affordability Bill

The Fight for Affordable Internet Access in California

In today’s digital age,reliable and affordable internet has become a basic necessity,much like electricity or running water.Unfortunately, millions of Californians are struggling to stay connected, facing a significant digital divide.

Assembly Member Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) is taking a bold step to address this critical issue with her new bill, AB 353.This legislation aims to ensure that all Californians have access to affordable internet options, bridging the gap for those who are left behind.

The urgency of AB 353 is underscored by the recent end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a federal program that provided crucial subsidies to low-income households. Nearly 3 million California households lost this vital support when the program ended last year, leaving many struggling to afford basic internet service.

A 2024 survey conducted by the Benton Institute revealed the stark reality faced by many low-income Californians. Unstable internet connections and mounting monthly service costs place a significant burden on these families, hindering their ability to fully participate in today’s digital world.

“We are talking about kids not being able to do homework at home, parents having to go to libraries to apply for jobs, and people not having access to do basic things, like telehealth,” Boerner stated in a news release.These words paint a powerful picture of the far-reaching consequences of limited internet access.

The ACP had a profound impact on California, providing nearly $1.7 billion in subsidies over its lifespan.Considerably, 38% of households enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program also participated in the ACP, highlighting the program’s critical role for vulnerable families.

Prior attempts to legislate affordability in the internet space, such as similar bills proposed in 2024, have fallen short. However, Boerner remains hopeful for AB 353’s success. The bill represents a pivotal step towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all Californians have the opportunity to thrive in the 21st century.

How Does AB 353 Aim to Create a More affordable Internet Landscape in California?

Assembly Member Boerner on AB 353: Bringing Affordable Internet to All Californians

While the specific details of how AB 353 plans to achieve its goals are still being worked out, the bill represents a significant commitment to addressing the digital divide in California. Boerner’s passion for this issue is evident, and her determination to bring affordable internet to all Californians is inspiring.

Access to affordable internet has become a fundamental right, essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement.

The Fight for Affordable Internet Access in California

In today’s hyper-connected world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity.Yet, millions of Californians struggle to stay connected, facing a digital divide that hinders their opportunities and well-being. Assembly Member Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) understands this urgency and is leading a critical charge to ensure affordable internet access for all californians through her groundbreaking bill,AB 353.

“The digital world is where so much happens – from education and healthcare to job applications and everyday interaction,” says Boerner. “Without reliable and affordable internet access, Californians are being left behind. we’re talking about children unable to complete their homework, parents forced to rely on public libraries for basic tasks, and individuals denied access to essential telehealth services. The consequences are far-reaching and deeply concerning.”

The recent end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided subsidies to low-income families, has exacerbated this issue.”The end of the ACP is a meaningful setback,” states Boerner. “It directly impacts nearly 3 million Californian households who were able to afford internet service through those subsidies. These are families already struggling to make ends meet. Losing this crucial support creates an even greater obstacle for them to participate fully in our society.”

AB 353 seeks to address this pressing problem by establishing a framework for ensuring affordable internet options for all Californians.”Our bill aims to establish a framework for ensuring affordable internet options for all Californians,” Boerner explains. “This includes exploring innovative financing mechanisms, encouraging competition in the internet service provider market, and prioritizing the needs of low-income communities. We need to create a system that truly puts people first and recognizes that access to reliable and affordable internet is essential.”

Boerner envisions a California where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age. “I firmly believe that everyone in California deserves the opportunity to thrive in the 21st century. access to affordable internet is fundamental to that. With AB 353, we aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Californians, regardless of their income or location, have the tools they need to succeed. This is about equity, opportunity, and creating a brighter future for all.”

The Fight for Affordable Internet: How You Can Make a Difference

In today’s digital world, reliable and affordable internet access is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.It connects us to education, healthcare, job opportunities, and a world of facts. Unfortunately, millions of Californians struggle to afford this essential service. But there’s hope.

Assembly member boerner recognizes this challenge and is championing AB 353, a crucial bill aimed at making internet access more affordable for everyone. “This is a critical issue that requires our collective voice,” she emphasizes.

What can you do to support this critical initiative?

Assembly Member Boerner urges individuals to take action: “I encourage everyone to contact their local representatives and voice their support for AB 353.”

Beyond contacting your representatives, stay informed about AB 353’s progress. Engage in conversations with your community about the urgent need for affordable internet for all. Your voice can make a real difference in ensuring that all Californians have access to the opportunities the internet offers.

What are the specific provisions within AB 353 aimed at making internet more affordable in California?

Assembly Member Boerner on AB 353: Bringing Affordable Internet to All Californians

Access to affordable internet has become a essential right, essential for education,employment,healthcare,and civic engagement.

Today,millions of Californians struggle to stay connected,facing a digital divide that hinders their opportunities and well-being. Assembly Member Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) understands this urgency and is leading a critical charge to ensure affordable internet access for all Californians thru her groundbreaking bill,AB 353. Archyde News spoke with Assembly Member Boerner about the importance of AB 353 and what it means for Californians.

“The digital world is where so much happens – from education and healthcare to job applications and everyday interaction,” says Boerner.”Without reliable and affordable internet access, Californians are being left behind.We’re talking about children unable to complete their homework, parents forced to rely on public libraries for basic tasks, and individuals denied access to essential telehealth services. The consequences are far-reaching and deeply concerning.”

Archyde News: assembly Member Boerner, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) recently ended, leaving millions of Californians without crucial internet subsidies. How does AB 353 aim to fill this gap?

“The end of the ACP is a meaningful setback,” states Boerner. “It directly impacts nearly 3 million Californian households who were able to afford internet service through those subsidies. These are families already struggling to make ends meet. Losing this crucial support creates an even greater obstacle for them to participate fully in our society. AB 353 seeks to address this pressing problem by establishing a framework for ensuring affordable internet options for all Californians. Our bill aims to explore innovative financing mechanisms, encourage competition in the internet service provider market, and prioritize the needs of low-income communities. we need to create a system that truly puts people first and recognizes that access to reliable and affordable internet is essential.”

Archyde News: What concrete steps will AB 353 take to achieve these goals?

“While the specifics are still being worked out, AB 353 aims to foster collaboration between policymakers, internet providers, and community organizations. We’ll explore options such as expanding existing programs, incentivizing providers to offer affordable plans, and perhaps creating a dedicated fund to support internet affordability initiatives. Our goal is to build a sustainable system that ensures lasting access for all Californians.

Archyde News: What message do you hope Californians take away from AB 353?

“I firmly believe that everyone in California deserves the chance to thrive in the 21st century. Access to affordable internet is fundamental to that. With AB 353, we aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Californians, nonetheless of their income or location, have the tools they need to succeed. This is about equity, opportunity, and creating a brighter future for all. We need everyone’s voice on this issue. Contact your representatives, engage in conversations, and let’s work together to make affordable internet a reality for every Californian.

The Fight for Affordable Internet: How You Can Make a difference

In today’s digital world,reliable and affordable internet access is no longer a luxury,but a necessity.It connects us to education, healthcare, job opportunities, and a world of facts. Unluckily, millions of Californians struggle to afford this essential service. But there’s hope.

Assembly member boerner recognizes this challenge and is championing AB 353, a crucial bill aimed at making internet access more affordable for everyone. “This is a critical issue that requires our collective voice,” she emphasizes.

What can you do to support this critical initiative?

Assembly Member Boerner urges individuals to take action: “I encourage everyone to contact their local representatives and voice their support for AB 353.”

Beyond contacting your representatives, stay informed about AB 353’s progress. Engage in conversations with your community about the urgent need for affordable internet for all. Your voice can make a real difference in ensuring that all Californians have access to the opportunities the internet offers.