What Makes a Community ‘Unserved’ or ‘Underserved’ by Broadband?

States use a range of internet speeds to define the various levels of service

What Makes a Community 'Underserved' by Broadband?

On May 3, 2023 The Pew Charitable Trusts sent a memo to state broadband offices that are participating in Pew’s broadband education and training initiative, which compared states’ statutory definitions of “unserved” and “underserved” areas. The memo also explained why states may need to authorize their broadband offices to adjust these definitions to account for the recent influx of federal funding.

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Technical Broadband Assistance to States

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As unprecedented broadband funding flows to states as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, delivering high-speed internet access to all Americans has never been more achievable. But the opportunity before state leaders comes with significant challenges. Policymakers must establish or expand broadband programs, train staff, and navigate local priorities, all while adhering to federal requirements.

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Learn the Basics of Broadband from Our Limited Series

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How does broadband internet reach our homes, phones, and tablets? What kind of infrastructure connects us all together? What are the major barriers to broadband access for American communities?