Expanded internet access could bring new jobs to rural areas

Expanded internet access could bring new jobs to rural areas - CBS News Watch CBS News The Biden administration on Monday announced $667 million in new funding to build more broadband internet access in the U.S. The grants and loans are spread across 22 states, but will target "rural, remote and unserved communities." Drew Clark, CEO of internet advocacy company Broadband Breakfast, joins CBS News to discuss how rural areas would benefit from expanded internet access. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. 

Internet access for all must become a priority :

During this national Digital Inclusion Week, Ohio Department of Development officials are focusing on making digital technology available and practical for all Ohioans — following the week’s theme “Building Connected Communities.” “You cannot have opportunities in a modern economy without access to broadband internet and the skills to use it, which is why our mission to make Ohio more connected is so important,” Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said Monday. “During this week, I encourage all Ohioans to take advantage of the resources available to become more knowledgeable and better able to use the tools that connect us across the state.” If they are able to connect at all, that is. Sure, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance hosted a series of webinars this past week, and the Columbus Metropolitan Library offered opportunities to develop digital skills and obtain affordable devices and internet connections. But what good does that do Ohioans who still don’t have even the possibility of reliable, high-speed broadband internet access, let alone the tools and skills they need to use it? BroadbandOhio has spent the past three years helping to “bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Ohioans have high-speed internet access,” according to the Department of Development. But according to research website Broadband Search, “Ohio has less internet accessibility than many other of the most popular states. … 5.7% of residents in Ohio have no internet connection at home or elsewhere.” And 22.9% do not have high-speed internet access. For those folks, touting the availability of digital skills classes is akin to showing them how to use all the features on their new refrigerator before their homes are wired for electricity. Yes, it was important this past week (and all the time) to think about giving low-income households, aging populations, incarcerated individuals, veterans, people with disabilities, people with language barriers, racial and ethnic minorities, and rural residents the skills and resources they’ll need to thrive in the digital age. But for the sake of our families, our schools and our communities, the push to bring the access they need to employ those skills must be officials’ top priority. 

Expanded internet access could bring new jobs to rural areas - CBS News Watch CBS News The Biden administration on Monday announced $667 million in new funding to build more broadband internet access in the U.S. The grants and loans are spread across 22 states, but will target "rural, remote and unserved communities." Drew Clark, CEO of internet advocacy company Broadband Breakfast, joins CBS News to discuss how rural areas would benefit from expanded internet access. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.