To Narrow the Digital Divide, the FCC Should Not Simply Extend Lifeline to Broadband

As more activities move online, it is becoming increasingly important to narrow the digital divide by helping those who cannot afford Internet access.The FCC's $2.25 billion proposal to expand the Lifeline telephone assistance program into a monthly broadband subsidy is unlikely to narrow the digital divide.Congress should adopt a comprehensive approach that encompasses digital literacy outreach programs and low-cost equipment plans as well as monthly service plan subsidies