The House Innovation, Technology & Economic Development Committee (Committee) held a recent work session with a specific focus on broadband and digital inclusion issues facing the state. The Committee heard from the State’s Broadband Office, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), and the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA).

The State Broadband Office reported that in the most recent state broadband survey, 93% of respondents have access to broadband, but 37% of these respondents had substandard connectivity speed (less than 10 Mbps download) and an additional 7% of respondents had no broadband access.

The State Broadband Office also discussed their strategy to increase broadband connectivity across the state:

• Maximize federal and private sector funding;
• Incorporate scalable, “future proof” networks;
• Address last mile funding challenges;
• Support digital equity and inclusion in coordination with state Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts; and
• Support emerging technologies (i.e. 5G Cellular, SpaceX Starlink, Amazon Kuiper).

OSPI offered additional insight into the broadband and digital inclusion needs for K-12 students in Washington: at the start of the 2020–21 school year, between 80–89% of students had adequate technology and connectivity to learn remotely. Conversely, an estimated 16% (an estimated 184,000 students statewide) do not have adequate technology and connectivity. However, students need both access to broadband and electronic devices in order to participate in online learning. In August, 74% (an estimated 820,000 students statewide) had a district-owned device for use at home.

For more information regarding the Committee’s recent hearing and the NDIA report, click here.