Benton Institute for Broadband & Society Calls on NTIA to Act on Digital Equity and Opportunity Funding After Court Ruling

We commend NDIA’s commitment and courage in bringing the case. This decision is a significant but incomplete victory for those of us committed to meaningful connectivity for all. Congress was right to recognize the historical disparities in access and adoption of critical connectivity tools—and to address these inequities with thoughtful planning and funding. We disagree with the court’s decision that considering the connectivity needs of racial or ethnic minorities constitutes an unconstitutional race-based classification. The court also found that terminating the entire program was not warranted. The Administration committed to restarting the program, and we call on Administrator Roth to act quickly. There has been far too much delay, which has meant fewer digital navigators supporting seniors, fewer skills programs for veterans or returning citizens, fewer devices for low-income families, fewer opportunities, and more Americans left behind.