1. How does the state of Colorado address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families?

In Colorado, low-income families can access affordable internet services through various initiatives and programs such as:

1. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer discounted rates for low-income households: Many ISPs in Colorado participate in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Lifeline Assistance Program, which offers discounted rates for broadband internet services to eligible low-income households. Some of these ISPs include CenturyLink, Xfinity, and Rise Broadband.

2. Internet Basics Program: The Colorado Department of Human Services partners with Comcast to provide low-cost internet services through the Internet Basics Program. Eligible households can access broadband internet for $9.95 per month, with no activation or equipment rental fees.

3. ConnectHomeUSA: Through this program, residents in select public housing communities across Colorado can get free or low-cost internet services from participating ISPs such as CenturyLink and Comcast.

4. K-12 School Support: The state also provides support for K-12 students’ remote learning needs through initiatives like the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund and the Broadband Technology Opportunity Grant (BTOP). These programs aim to bridge the digital divide by providing hotspots and devices to students who lack reliable internet access at home.

5. Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): LEAP helps low-income families pay their energy bills, which can indirectly free up funds for essential services like broadband internet.

6. Digital Literacy Training: The state supports digital literacy training programs that help low-income residents learn how to use technology effectively and navigate online tools.

Overall these efforts aim to address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families in Colorado and ensure that all residents have access to essential online services.

2. What government programs are available in Colorado to ensure affordable internet access for underserved communities?

There are several government programs available in Colorado to ensure affordable internet access for underserved communities, including:

1. Connect Colorado: This program administered by the Governor’s Office of Information Technology (OIT) aims to connect every Colorado resident and business with broadband service by 2020. It provides resources and support for broadband infrastructure development, digital literacy training, and adoption efforts.

2. Lifeline Assistance Program: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) offers a Lifeline discount program that provides discounted phone or internet service for low-income households. Eligible residents can receive a monthly credit of up to $9.25 on their bill.

3. Internet Essentials: This is a program offered by Comcast that provides low-cost internet service ($9.95 per month) to eligible low-income households in Colorado. It also offers an option to purchase a discounted computer and free digital literacy training.

4. FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit Program: Starting in May 2021, eligible residents can receive up to $50/month off their internet bill through this temporary program funded by the federal government. Eligibility criteria include participating in certain assistance programs, such as Medicaid or SNAP.

5. PC for People: This non-profit organization offers refurbished computers and affordable internet plans to low-income individuals and families, with prices starting at $15/month.

6. Public Libraries: Many public libraries in Colorado offer free public Wi-Fi access, as well as hotspots that patrons can check out for home use.

7. Internet Service Provider Discount Programs: Some major internet service providers offer their own discount programs for low-income households, such as CenturyLink’s Internet Basics Program and Spectrum’s Spectrum Internet Assist.

Overall, these programs aim to increase access to affordable high-speed internet for underserved communities in Colorado and bridge the digital divide between those who have reliable internet access and those who do not.

3. In what ways is the government of Colorado working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents?

The government of Colorado is working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability in several ways:

1. Connecting Colorado Initiative: This program was launched by Governor Jared Polis in 2019 with the goal of expanding broadband access to all communities in the state. The initiative includes a grant program that provides funding for infrastructure projects and technical assistance to help local governments develop broadband plans.

2. Broadband Deployment Board: The Colorado Broadband Deployment Board was created in 2014 to oversee the distribution of funds for broadband expansion projects. The board has awarded over $90 million in grants for infrastructure projects that have helped bring high-speed internet to underserved communities.

3. Public-Private Partnerships: The government is partnering with private internet service providers to expand broadband access. For example, a partnership between the state government and Comcast has helped bring high-speed internet to rural communities.

4. Digital Literacy Programs: To ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet, the government is also investing in digital literacy programs. These programs provide training and resources for individuals and businesses on how to effectively use technology and access online services.

5. Affordable Internet Plans: The state has worked with internet service providers to offer low-cost internet plans for low-income families and individuals, making it more accessible and affordable for them to connect online.

6. Statewide Broadband plan: In collaboration with local governments, community organizations, businesses, and citizens, the state is developing a comprehensive statewide broadband plan, aimed at expanding high-speed internet access across Colorado.

7. Telehealth Expansion: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the state expanded telehealth services by increasing funding for broadband infrastructure so that healthcare providers can connect remotely with their patients.

8.Homework Gap Initiative: To address educational disparities exacerbated by lack of access to reliable internet at home, the state launched the Homework Gap Initiative, providing students from low-income families with mobile hotspots and devices to access the internet for educational purposes.

Overall, Colorado’s government is taking a multi-pronged approach to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents, with a focus on infrastructure development, public-private partnerships, digital literacy programs, and targeted initiatives to address specific needs of underserved communities.

4. What incentives or initiatives has Colorado implemented to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans?

Some incentives or initiatives that Colorado has implemented to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans include:

1. Broadband Deployment Board: The state created the Colorado Broadband Deployment Board to oversee and fund projects aimed at increasing broadband access and affordability in underserved areas of the state.

2. Broadband Tax Credits: Colorado offers tax credits to ISPs that invest in broadband infrastructure in underserved areas, making it more financially feasible for them to expand their services.

3. Statewide Broadband Office: The state’s broadband office works with ISPs and local communities to develop strategies for increasing access and affordability of broadband internet.

4. Digital Literacy Programs: The state has launched numerous digital literacy programs to help educate residents on how to use the internet effectively, which can help make internet services more valuable and affordable for them.

5. Public-Private Partnerships: The state encourages public-private partnerships between local governments and ISPs, which can lead to increased competition and lower prices for consumers.

6. Cooperative Purchasing Program: Colorado has a cooperative purchasing program that allows schools, libraries, and other public institutions to pool their resources together when buying internet services, which can result in lower prices for these organizations.

7. Net Neutrality Protections: In 2018, Colorado became the first state in the nation to pass a law requiring ISPs to follow net neutrality principles. This ensures that all websites and online content are treated equally, preventing providers from charging extra fees for faster speeds or favoring certain websites over others.

8. Mobile Hotspot Lending Libraries: Some communities in Colorado have set up mobile hotspot lending libraries where residents can borrow portable devices that provide Wi-Fi access at no cost. This helps bridge the digital divide and provides an alternative option for those who may not be able to afford traditional home internet plans.

9. Satellite Internet Grants: To help increase availability of broadband options in rural areas, Colorado offers grant funding for satellite-based internet services which can be more affordable for some residents compared to traditional wired options.

5. Is there a specific agency or department in Colorado responsible for overseeing internet affordability programs?

The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) has a division called the Broadband Deployment Office, which is responsible for promoting broadband access and affordability in the state. This office is also responsible for administering the Connect Colorado grant program, which provides funds to support the deployment and adoption of broadband services in underserved areas. Additionally, the Colorado Public Utilities Commission oversees certain aspects of telecommunications and internet affordability.

6. How does Colorado measure and track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents?

The Office of Broadband and the Colorado Broadband Office are responsible for tracking progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access in Colorado. They use several metrics to measure and monitor broadband access including:

1. Broadband Coverage: The percentage of households with access to fixed broadband at defined speeds (currently 25Mbps download and 3Mbps upload).

2. Speed Affordability: This measures the percentage of households that have access to broadband at a price point that is considered affordable (less than 2% of their monthly income).

3. Digital Equity: This metric tracks the percentage of households that have both broadband access and a computing device, such as a computer or tablet.

4. Mobile Broadband Coverage: This measures the availability of mobile broadband coverage in different parts of the state.

In addition to these metrics, the Colorado Broadband Office also conducts surveys, collects data from internet service providers, and works with local communities to gather information on broadband availability and affordability. This data is then used to create maps and reports that track progress towards achieving statewide broadband goals.

Furthermore, the Governor’s Office of Information Technology regularly reviews and updates the statewide Broadband Deployment Plan which outlines strategies to address gaps in internet access and improve affordability for all Coloradans.

Overall, Colorado uses a combination of data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning to measure progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents.

7. Are there any partnerships between government and private companies in Colorado aimed at lowering the cost of internet service?

Yes, there are several partnerships between government and private companies in Colorado aimed at lowering the cost of internet service:

1. The Connect Colorado partnership: This is a collaboration between the State of Colorado, local governments, and internet service providers (ISPs) to expand broadband access and affordability to underserved communities in the state. Through this partnership, the State provides grants and technical support to local communities while ISPs offer discounted rates for broadband services.

2. The Internet Essential program: Comcast has partnered with the City and County of Denver to provide discounted high-speed internet services to low-income families in Denver. Eligible families can receive internet service for $9.95 per month and have access to affordable computers.

3. CenturyLink Affordable Broadband Program: CenturyLink has partnered with several cities in Colorado, including Aurora, Boulder, and Fort Collins, to offer discounted high-speed internet services to low-income households. Eligible residents can receive internet service for $9.95 per month through this program.

4. Elevations Credit Union – Nextlight Broadband Partnership: Elevations Credit Union has partnered with NextLight Broadband (a municipal broadband provider) to offer lower interest rates on loans for individuals who want to take advantage of NextLight’s high-speed internet services.

5. FCC Lifeline Program partners: Several ISPs (including Comcast, Spectrum, and HughesNet) participate in the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline Program in Colorado. This program offers discounts on basic phone or broadband service for low-income households.

Overall, these partnerships aim to bridge the digital divide and provide affordable access to high-speed internet services for all residents of Colorado.

8. Does Colorado provide subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs?

Yes, Colorado does provide subsidies and discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs through several programs.

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program provides a $9.25 monthly discount on phone or internet services for eligible low-income households.

2. Internet Essentials: This program, offered by Comcast, provides affordable internet service to households that have at least one child eligible for the National School Lunch Program.

3. Low-Income Telephone Assistance Program: This state-funded program offers a discount of $17.62 per month on landline telephone service for eligible households.

4. Connect for Health Colorado: This state-based health insurance marketplace offers financial assistance and subsidies to offset the cost of health insurance plans for individuals and families with low incomes.

5. Energy Outreach Colorado: This non-profit organization offers energy bill payment assistance to low-income households, which can help free up funds for other expenses like internet costs.

6. CenturyLink Internet Basics: CenturyLink offers discounted high-speed internet service to low-income households who qualify based on income or participation in certain government programs such as Medicaid or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

There may also be local community organizations or non-profits in Colorado that offer additional resources and assistance to help low-income households afford internet service.

9. Are there any state-level regulations or policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services in Colorado?

Yes, there are state-level regulations and policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services in Colorado.

1. Broadband Adoption and Inclusion Program (BAIP): The BAIP, administered by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), provides funding to support broadband deployment and adoption in underserved areas of the state. This program helps ensure that residents have access to affordable broadband services.

2. Broadband Deployment Board: The Broadband Deployment Board, also under DORA, awards grants to broadband providers who want to expand their services into unserved areas. This helps increase competition, which can result in lower prices for consumers.

3. Consumer Protection Laws: Colorado has consumer protection laws that prevent ISPs from engaging in deceptive advertising practices or charging unreasonable prices for their services.

4. Net Neutrality Legislation: In 2018, Colorado passed a net neutrality law that requires ISPs to treat all internet traffic equally and prohibits them from engaging in discriminatory pricing practices.

5. Lifeline Assistance Program: Low-income residents of Colorado may be eligible for the Lifeline Assistance Program, which offers a discount on monthly internet service bills through participating providers.

6. Municipal Broadband Access: Some municipalities in Colorado have established their own municipal broadband networks or have entered into partnerships with private companies to provide affordable internet access to residents.

7. Statewide Broadband Map: The Governor’s Office of Information Technology maintains a statewide broadband map that shows the availability and speeds of broadband service throughout the state. This information can help consumers make informed decisions about choosing an ISP with competitive pricing.

In summary, Colorado has implemented several measures to promote competition and protect consumers from exorbitant prices for internet services, including providing funding for broadband deployment and adoption, enacting net neutrality legislation, offering discounts for low-income individuals, supporting municipal broadband networks, and providing resources for consumers to compare prices and speeds of different ISPs.

10. Can students from low-income families in Colorado access discounted or free high-speed internet through government programs?

Yes, there are several government programs in Colorado that provide discounted or free high-speed internet to students from low-income families. These programs include:

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program provides a discount of up to $9.25 per month for broadband or phone services for eligible low-income households.

2. Connect America Fund: This federal program offers discounted internet service to rural areas in Colorado.

3. Internet Essentials from Comcast: This program provides affordable internet service ($9.95 per month) and a low-cost computer ($149.99) to eligible families with school-age children.

4. CenturyLink Internet Basics: This program offers discounted high-speed internet service and a modem at a reduced price for qualifying low-income households.

5. PCs for People: This non-profit organization offers affordable computers, mobile hotspots, and low-cost internet service to low-income households.

6. EveryoneOn.org: This website helps connect individuals and families with low-cost internet plans in their area.

To see if you qualify for any of these programs, it is recommended to contact the individual providers directly or visit their websites for more information and application details.

11. How does Colorado’s approach to promoting internet affordability differ from that of other states?

Colorado’s approach to promoting internet affordability differs from that of other states in several ways:

1. Broadband Fund: In 2016, Colorado established the Broadband Fund, a state fund dedicated to initiatives and projects that promote increased access to broadband services in unserved and underserved areas of the state. Other states may also have similar funds, but Colorado’s is unique in that it provides grants to local governments, nonprofits, and private entities for projects that improve broadband availability.

2. Public-Private Partnerships: Colorado has also promoted public-private partnerships to increase internet access in rural areas. For example, the state partnered with a private company to expand broadband infrastructure in the San Luis Valley.

3. Broadband Map: The state also created a broadband map that shows areas of inconsistent or nonexistent coverage. This allows policymakers and stakeholders to identify problem areas and direct resources accordingly.

4. Technology Neutral Approach: Unlike some other states that focus on specific technologies, such as fiber or wireless, Colorado takes a technology-neutral approach to promoting internet affordability. This allows for more flexibility in finding solutions for different communities and their unique needs.

5. Statewide Broadband Office: In 2018, Colorado created the Statewide Broadband Office (SBO) within the Governor’s Office of Information Technology to oversee statewide broadband deployment efforts. The SBO works with stakeholders across the state to develop strategies for increasing broadband accessibility and adoption.

6. Focus on Digital Literacy: In addition to infrastructure development, Colorado also recognizes the importance of digital literacy in promoting internet affordability. The Colorado Department of Education offers resources and training programs for educators and community members on how to use technology effectively.

Overall, Colorado takes a comprehensive approach towards promoting internet affordability by investing in infrastructure development, fostering public-private partnerships, utilizing data-driven strategies, and focusing on digital literacy education. This holistic approach has helped position Colorado as a leader in closing the digital divide among its residents.

12. Has the government ofColorado launched any innovative initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents?

Yes, the government of Colorado has launched a few initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents. These include:

1. Connecting Colorado Grant Program: In 2016, the state launched the Connecting Colorado Grant Program which provides funding to projects that expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas.

2. Broadband Development Fund: In 2019, the state enacted legislation to create a Broadband Development Fund, which provides grants to local governments and private sector entities for expansion of broadband service.

3. Broadband Deployment Board: The state also created a Broadband Deployment Board in 2018, which is responsible for developing and implementing a statewide plan for expanding broadband access.

4. Office of Information Technology (OIT) High-Speed Internet Grants: The OIT offers high-speed internet grants to counties, municipalities, and other entities for planning, design and implementation of broadband projects in underserved areas.

5. Statewide Broadband Office: The Statewide Broadband Office was created in 2020 to coordinate all efforts related to broadband infrastructure and deployment across different government agencies and departments.

6. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has encouraged public-private partnerships to expand broadband coverage in underserved areas.

7. Digital Literacy programs: The state has also launched digital literacy programs to provide training and education on how to effectively use high-speed broadband services.

Overall, these initiatives have helped increase access to high-speed broadband services for residents in rural and underserved areas of Colorado, making it more affordable and accessible for all residents.

13. Do rural areas in Colorado have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas do?

No, rural areas in Colorado do not have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas do. This is due to a variety of factors such as limited infrastructure and competition among internet service providers, which can drive up prices in rural areas. Additionally, rural communities often have lower income levels and may have less access to the latest technology and equipment needed for high-speed internet. Some efforts, such as government grants and partnerships with telecommunications companies, have been made to increase broadband access in rural areas, but there is still a significant gap in accessibility and affordability compared to urban areas.

14. What role do community organizations play in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Colorado?

Community organizations can play a significant role in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Colorado. These organizations can bring together groups of individuals and businesses, as well as collaborate with government officials and internet service providers, to raise awareness about the need for affordable internet and advocate for action.

Some ways that community organizations can work towards this goal include:

1. Conducting research: Community organizations can gather data and conduct research on the current state of internet access and affordability in their local communities. This information can be used to support advocacy efforts and provide evidence for the need for more affordable options.

2. Engaging with local policymakers: Community organizations can engage with local policymakers, such as city councils or school boards, to discuss the importance of affordable internet access and urge them to take action or support policies that promote it.

3. Partnering with ISPs: Community organizations can partner with ISPs to negotiate better rates for their members or negotiate packages specifically targeted towards low-income individuals and families.

4. Educating the community: Community organizations can host educational workshops and events to inform residents about their rights when it comes to internet access and how they can advocate for more affordable options.

5. Participating in coalitions: Community organizations can join forces with other advocacy groups or form coalitions specifically focused on promoting affordable internet access in Colorado. This allows for a larger, unified voice to address the issue.

6. Mobilizing grassroots efforts: Through online petitions, letter-writing campaigns, or rallies, community organizations can mobilize grassroots efforts to raise awareness about the need for affordable internet options in Colorado.

7. Utilizing media platforms: Social media platforms and traditional media outlets are powerful tools that community organizations can use to amplify their message and reach a wider audience.

Overall, community organizations have an important role in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Colorado by bringing together diverse stakeholders, raising awareness, and pushing for policy changes that promote equitable access to the internet.

15. Are there any tax credits or incentives available to ISPs in exchange for offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services in Colorado?

Yes, there are several tax credits and incentives available to ISPs in Colorado in exchange for offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services. These include the Colorado Rural Jump-Start Program, which offers income tax credits for up to eight years to new businesses in designated rural areas that provide high-paying jobs and promote economic development. Additionally, the Enterprise Zone Tax Credit can provide a 3% or 25% state income tax credit for investments made in qualified business property located within designated enterprise zones, which often include underserved communities.

Furthermore, the Colorado Broadband Deployment Board provides grants and loans to broadband service providers to assist with the deployment of broadband infrastructure and services in unserved and underserved areas of the state. The program also offers tax exemptions for eligible equipment used to provide broadband services.

Lastly, local municipalities may offer their own tax incentives or subsidies to encourage ISPs to offer lower-cost, high-speed internet services in their communities. These incentives vary by city or county and may include property tax abatements or sales tax exemptions.

16. How transparent is the government of Colorado’s decision-making process when it comes to allocating funds towards improving internet affordability?

It is difficult to provide a definitive answer to this question, as transparency can be interpreted and measured in many different ways. However, the following are some factors that could impact the perceived transparency of the government of Colorado’s decision-making process when it comes to allocating funds towards improving internet affordability:

1. Accessibility of information: The availability and accessibility of information about the government’s decision-making processes can play a significant role in determining transparency. This includes how easily members of the public can access information about budget allocations and proposed initiatives.

2. Public involvement: The level of public involvement and engagement in the decision-making process can also impact perceptions of transparency. If the government actively seeks input from stakeholders and incorporates feedback into their decisions, this can increase trust in the decision-making process.

3. Disclosure of conflicts of interest: Clarity on any potential conflicts of interest among decision-makers can also contribute to perceptions of transparency. This includes disclosing any financial or personal interests that may influence decisions related to internet affordability funding.

4. Communication about allocation criteria: If there are clear criteria for determining how funds will be allocated towards improving internet affordability, and these criteria are communicated openly, this could increase trust in the fairness and impartiality of decision-making processes.

5. Publicly available records: Transparency may also be enhanced by making records publicly available through open data portals or other means. This allows for greater scrutiny and accountability for budget allocations related to internet affordability.

Overall, while there may not be a definitive answer on how transparent the government’s decision-making processes are when it comes to allocating funds for improving internet affordability, efforts such as those mentioned above can contribute to a more transparent and accountable system.

17. What strategies has Colorado employed to promote digital equity and ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet?

a. Broadband internet infrastructure investments: Colorado has invested in the expansion of broadband infrastructure throughout the state, particularly in underserved rural areas. This includes grants and tax incentives for broadband providers to build new networks or upgrade existing ones.

b. Public-private partnerships: The state has established partnerships with private companies to bring broadband access to underserved areas. For example, the Connect Colorado initiative leverages public funds with private investment to expand broadband infrastructure.

c. Digital Literacy and training programs: Colorado has implemented digital literacy programs targeted at low-income and underserved communities, providing resources and training on how to access and use technology effectively.

d. Low-income internet programs: The state works with internet service providers to offer discounted rates for low-income households, making internet access more affordable for those who may otherwise be unable to afford it.

e. Statewide initiatives: Colorado has launched statewide initiatives such as the “Digital Inclusion Blueprint” which aims to improve digital equity by promoting access, adoption, and utilization of technology across the state.

f. Community-led efforts: Non-profits, community organizations, and libraries have also taken a role in promoting digital equity by offering resources and training programs that help people gain access to the internet.

g. Addressing barriers to accessibility: The state has worked towards addressing barriers that prevent individuals from accessing affordable internet, such as lack of competition among providers, limited availability of infrastructure in certain areas, and high equipment costs.

h. Mobile hotspots for students: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and remote learning needs, Colorado distributed mobile hotspots to students without internet access at home.

i. Broadband vouchers for low-income families: The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program was launched in 2021 to provide monthly discounts on broadband service for eligible low-income households during the pandemic.

j. Internet Service Provider transparency law: Colorado passed a law requiring ISPs to disclose information about their prices, speeds, data cap policies, and fees to help consumers make more informed decisions about their internet service.

18. Does the state government in Colorado work closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability?

Yes, the state government of Colorado works closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability. One example is the Connect for Colorado program, which aims to bridge the digital divide by providing affordable internet access and computer devices to low-income families. This program is a partnership between the state government, local governments, and private organizations. Additionally, the state has allocated funding for broadband infrastructure projects in rural areas to help increase access to affordable internet services.

19. How does the state ofColorado compare to neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability?

Colorado is a leader among neighboring states in promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability. According to the Federal Communications Commission’s 2020 Broadband Deployment Report, Colorado has higher adoption rates for fixed broadband services than all of its neighboring states (New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma).
Additionally, Colorado has made significant efforts to address the digital divide and promote access to affordable internet. In 2019, Colorado became the first state to pass a law requiring local governments to consider telecommunications infrastructure as part of their city planning process. This law aims to encourage more competition among internet service providers (ISPs) and ultimately drive down prices for consumers.
Furthermore, the state has several initiatives in place to increase broadband access and affordability in rural areas. These initiatives include the Colorado Broadband Office’s Connecting Colorado Grant Program which provides funding for broadband infrastructure projects in unserved areas.
Compared to its neighboring states, Colorado consistently ranks high in national studies and reports on internet affordability. For example, according to Comparitech’s 2020 US Cities with the Best Public Wi-Fi report, Denver (the capital of Colorado) ranks third among major US cities for offering free public Wi-Fi services. This further highlights the state’s commitment towards promoting widespread internet affordability.
Overall, while there is still room for improvement, Colorado is considered a leader in promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability compared to its neighboring states.

20. Are there long-term plans in place in Colorado to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents?

Yes, there are several long-term plans in place in Colorado to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents:

1. The Colorado Broadband Fund: In 2018, the state legislature passed a bill creating the Colorado Broadband Fund, which provides grants to local governments, public-private partnerships, and service providers to help increase broadband infrastructure and access in underserved areas of the state.

2. Connecting Colorado Task Force: Governor Jared Polis established the Connecting Colorado Task Force in 2019 to develop a statewide plan for improving broadband access and affordability. The task force consists of experts from various industries and has been working on policy recommendations to address the digital divide in rural areas.

3. Senate Bill 19-107: This legislation was passed in 2019 and aims to increase transparency around broadband rates and fees charged by internet service providers (ISPs). It requires ISPs to report their rates and fees annually to the Public Utilities Commission.

4. Securing Resources for Rural Areas Today (SRAT): The SRAT program is a partnership between the state government and local governments that provides funding for planning and implementing broadband solutions in unserved or underserved rural areas.

5. Statewide Internet Portal Authority (SIPA): SIPA works with government agencies at all levels to improve online services for citizens while reducing overall costs through economies of scale. By partnering with SIPA, local governments can save money on technology infrastructure improvements, freeing up resources that can then be used for expanding broadband access.

6. Broadband Rountable: In January 2020, Governor Polis created a new Broadband Roundtable comprised of experts from industry, education, healthcare, tribal communities, agriculture, government, and other key stakeholders who work together to solve connectivity problems facing communities throughout Colorado.

Overall, these initiatives demonstrate Colorado’s commitment to addressing the issue of rising internet costs and closing the digital divide for its residents. With continued efforts and partnerships between the government, ISPs, and local communities, Colorado is working towards providing affordable and accessible high-speed internet for all.