Friends and Families of Senate District 12,

Today, I write about the lack of vital broadband infrastructure throughout California that risks our future as the innovation state, and threatens to leave behind rural communities.  

For years, well-meaning groups, expensive legislation, and thousands of hours have been devoted to bringing high-speed Internet services - fast broadband - to every corner of California.  Unfortunately, hundreds of thousands of residents still access the Internet through slow dial-up technologies that date back decades. Millions reach the Internet solely through mobile networks and mobile phones. These connections and devices might allow someone to check email, or watch a short video, but they do not support a meaningful connection to conduct a remote doctor’s visit (telehealth), attend an online college lecture (tele-education), apply for a job, or run a small business (commerce). 

The stay at home orders resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic have focused a massive spotlight on the “digital divide” – the lack of broadband services to certain communities (usually rural and poor), and the lack of broadband adoption by other communities, where connections are available but usage is still low (often because of expensive broadband subscription plans). As a special Guest Commentary to CalMatters.org, I wrote about what the future for rural California could be, if broadband services are available in every household – just like water or electricity.  Read about that future HERE.

Internet services offered to consumers now support core life services, meaning things like education, health, and economic opportunities are easier to access for subscribers of private, broadband services. Entire rural communities are being left behind a broadband dependent way of life, that the technology-laden urban job centers are driving, further exacerbating the issues that the Internet could potentially solve for our rural communities.

Bringing broadband to all Californians has been, and continues to be a massive effort. I want every resident in Senate District 12 that struggles with broadband issues to tell me about it. 

• Go to my Facebook page HERE or search for me on Facebook @SenatorCaballero
• Visit Twitter page HERE or find me @CASenCaballero   
• You can also call or email me HERE

Ultimately, breaking down the “digital divide” benefits you and your communities, and I’ll need your voices and support to get it done. 
 

Stay safe and be well,

Senator Anna M. Caballero