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

One way the state of Hawaii addresses the issue of high internet costs for low-income families is through its Lifeline Assistance Program, which provides discounted phone and internet services for qualifying low-income households. The program is funded by the Universal Service Fund, which collects fees from telephone companies to support affordable communication services for low-income individuals.

In addition, the Hawaii State Department of Education provides free or low-cost internet options for students in need through partnerships with local providers. This allows families to access the internet for educational purposes at a reduced cost.

The state also offers digital literacy programs and resources to help low-income families learn how to use technology and navigate the internet effectively. These programs aim to provide skills and knowledge that can help families make informed decisions about their internet usage and ultimately save money on their bills.

Furthermore, the state government is working towards improving broadband infrastructure in rural and underserved areas to increase competition among providers and drive down prices. Through initiatives such as the Hawaii Broadband Initiative, efforts are being made to expand broadband access and affordability throughout the state.

Overall, through a combination of government assistance programs, educational resources, and infrastructure improvements, Hawaii is addressing the issue of high internet costs for low-income families in an effort to bridge the digital divide and promote equal access to information and opportunities.

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

1. Lifeline Program: This is a federal program that provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. Eligible families in Hawaii can receive up to $9.25 per month towards their internet bill.

2. Hawaiian Telcom’s Access Program: This program offers discounted internet and telephone services to eligible seniors, persons with disabilities, and low-income households in Hawaii.

3. Digital Equity Initiative: The State of Hawaii’s Office of Information Management and Technology (OIMT) has launched this initiative to provide digital literacy training and access to affordable technology for underserved communities.

4. Hawaiian Electric’s Ohana Energy Gift Program: This program helps families pay for electricity costs so they can afford other basic needs, including internet access.

5. Internet First Program: Through a partnership between Comcast and the Department of Education, low-income students in public schools across Hawaii have access to high-speed internet at home for only $9.95 per month.

6. ConnectHome Initiative: The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has partnered with the State of Hawaii to provide free or low-cost high-speed internet to residents living in public housing or receiving rental assistance.

7. Discount Cable TV Programs: Several cable providers in Hawaii offer discounted pricing for low-income households on select cable TV packages that include internet services.

8. Non-Profit Organizations: Non-profit organizations such as Everyone On and DigitalCovenant have programs aimed at providing low-cost internet service options for underserved communities in Hawaii.

9. Public Wi-Fi Access Points: Many parks, libraries, community centers and government offices in Hawaii offer free public Wi-Fi access points for individuals who do not have affordable internet service at home.

10. Hotspot Lending Programs: Some public libraries in Hawaii have hotspot lending programs where patrons can borrow mobile hotspots for a period of time to connect to the internet from anywhere.

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

There are several initiatives that the government of Hawaii has implemented in order to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents. These include:

1. Broadband Expansion: The State of Hawaii has invested in expanding broadband infrastructure to underserved areas, including rural communities and low-income neighborhoods.

2. Digital Literacy Programs: The state has also implemented digital literacy programs aimed at teaching residents how to effectively use technology and navigate the internet.

3. Internet Service Provider Regulation: The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs regulates internet service providers (ISPs) in the state to ensure fair pricing and quality service.

4. Low-Income Assistance Programs: Hawaii offers various programs to assist low-income families with accessing affordable high-speed internet, such as Lifeline Assistance Program and ConnectHome Initiative.

5. Community Wi-Fi Access Points: The state is working on establishing community Wi-Fi access points in public spaces, such as libraries, schools, and community centers, to provide free or low-cost internet access for residents.

6. Public-Private Partnerships: Hawaii has formed partnerships with private companies to offer discounted internet plans for low-income households.

7. Education Initiatives: The state government is working with schools to integrate technology into the curriculum and provide students with laptops or tablets for home use.

8. Internet Tax Relief: In an effort to promote affordability, Hawaii does not impose sales tax on internet services.

Overall, the government of Hawaii recognizes the importance of bridging the digital divide and is taking steps towards creating a more connected and equitable society for all residents.

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

– Connect America Fund: In 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allocated over $11 million of funding from the Connect America Fund to improve broadband infrastructure in Hawaii.
– Broadband Provider Tax Incentives: Hawaii offers tax incentives for internet service providers (ISPs) in rural and underserved areas, encouraging them to expand their networks and offer more affordable plans.
– Broadband Acceleration Initiative: This statewide effort focuses on promoting the adoption and use of broadband services, particularly in underserved communities. It includes efforts to increase digital literacy and provide technical assistance to ISPs.
– State Broadband Office: The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has a designated Broadband Office that works with stakeholders to identify barriers to broadband deployment and adoption, and develop strategies to address them.
– Public-Private Partnerships: The state has partnered with private companies like Google and Hawaiian Electric Company to increase access to high-speed internet in certain areas.
– Digital Equity Grants: In partnership with the Hawaii Community Foundation, the state offers grants for digital literacy programs targeting underserved communities.
– Lower Regulation Barriers: Hawaii has lowered regulatory barriers for ISPs, making it easier for them to enter new markets and compete on price. This includes streamlining application processes for permits and licenses.

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

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) oversees broadband and telecommunications in the state. They work closely with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to implement and ensure compliance with federal internet affordability programs, such as Lifeline, in Hawaii.

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

The Hawaii State Broadband Office (HSBO) tracks progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access through a variety of mechanisms, including:

1. Broadband Mapping: The HSBO maintains a broadband availability map that shows the coverage and speed of broadband services throughout the state. This helps identify areas where internet access is limited or non-existent.

2. Data Collection and Analysis: The HSBO collects data from internet service providers (ISPs) on their coverage areas, speeds, and pricing. This data is analyzed to identify gaps in coverage and affordability.

3. Surveys and Feedback: The HSBO conducts surveys and solicits feedback from residents, businesses, and community organizations to understand their internet usage habits, needs, and challenges.

4. Partnerships with ISPs: The HSBO works closely with ISPs to collect information on their current infrastructure investments and plans for future expansion.

5. Collaboration with Other Government Agencies: The HSBO collaborates with other government agencies such as the Department of Education and the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism to gather data on internet usage in schools, libraries, hospitals, and other public institutions.

6. Policy Evaluation: The HSBO evaluates existing policies related to broadband deployment and provides recommendations for improving affordability and access based on industry best practices.

7. Performance Reporting: The HSBO produces an annual report summarizing its activities over the year as well as progress made towards achieving its goals of increasing broadband availability and affordability in the state.

Through these methods of data collection and analysis, the HSBO is able to track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for all residents in Hawaii.

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

Yes, there are several partnerships between government and private companies in Hawaii aimed at lowering the cost of internet service. Some examples include:

1) The Connect Hawaii Initiative, a partnership between the State of Hawaii and local internet service providers to provide affordable broadband internet access to underserved communities in the state.
2) The Hawaiian Telcom Hui Project, a collaboration between Hawaiian Telcom and the state Department of Education that offers discounted high-speed internet service to low-income families with children enrolled in public schools.
3) The Big Island Broadband Working Group, a public-private partnership focused on increasing access to broadband internet on the island by working with local telecom companies.
4) Google’s Ready Cable Project, which aims to bring high-speed fiber internet to neighborhoods in Honolulu at an affordable price through a partnership with the city government.
5) The Pacific Island Telecommunications Association (PITA), which works with private companies and governments across the Pacific region, including Hawaii, to improve communication infrastructure and reduce costs for consumers.

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

Yes, Hawaii offers several programs and initiatives to help low-income households access affordable internet services.

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program provides a monthly discount of $9.25 on landline or wireless phone service, or qualifying internet service for eligible low-income households.

2. Hawaiian Telcom Lifeline Discount Program: Qualified customers receive up to $11 off their monthly internet bill through this program offered by Hawaiian Telcom.

3. Comcast Internet Essentials: Low-income families can sign up for high-speed internet for $9.95 per month through this program offered by Comcast.

4. Spectrum Internet Assist: Eligible low-income households can get high-speed internet service for $14.99 per month through this program offered by Spectrum.

5. Low-Income Broadband Pilot Program (LBBPP): Qualified low-income families can receive a discount of at least 20% off the cost of basic broadband services through participating providers, such as AT&T and Verizon Wireless.

6. ConnectHome Initiative: This national initiative aims to bridge the digital divide for families living in HUD-assisted housing with free or low-cost internet options, digital literacy training, and device donation programs.

7.School District Initiatives: Many school districts in Hawaii have programs in place to provide discounted or free internet services and devices for students from low-income families.

Overall, there are multiple options available to help low-income households in Hawaii access affordable internet services. You can contact your local internet service provider or government agencies like the Department of Human Services for more information on specific eligibility requirements and application processes.

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

At the state level in Hawaii, there are currently no specific regulations or policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services. However, there are regulations and laws at the national level that may impact ISP pricing practices in the state.

One important regulation at the national level is the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Open Internet Order, which was passed in 2015. This order prohibits ISPs from engaging in unfair practices such as blocking or throttling certain internet traffic or charging differential prices for different types of content or services. This helps to prevent excessive pricing by ensuring that ISPs cannot discriminate against certain types of internet traffic or charge higher prices based on the content or service being accessed.

In addition, Hawaii is one of several states that has adopted its own version of net neutrality protections through legislation, known as the Hawaii Net Neutrality Act. This act requires all ISPs operating in Hawaii to adhere to net neutrality principles and prohibits them from engaging in any discriminatory practices when delivering internet services.

While these regulations do not directly address exorbitant pricing for internet services, they do help to promote fair competition and consumer choice by preventing ISPs from controlling or manipulating access to online content. This can indirectly have an impact on pricing by creating a more open and competitive market.

It is also worth noting that some local governments and communities in Hawaii have taken steps to improve broadband access and affordability for residents. For example, Honolulu’s Fiber Optic Network Initiative aims to increase competition among broadband providers and provide affordable high-speed internet options for residents.

Overall, while there may not be specific state-level regulations targeting exorbitant ISP pricing in Hawaii, there are national and local efforts aimed at promoting fair competition and consumer choice which can indirectly impact ISP pricing practices.

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

Yes, students from low-income families in Hawaii can access discounted or free high-speed internet through the Lifeline Assistance Program and the ConnectHome Initiative.

The Lifeline Assistance Program is a federal program that offers a monthly discount of $9.25 on internet service for eligible low-income households. Eligibility is based on criteria such as income level, participation in certain government assistance programs, and receiving benefits such as Medicaid or SNAP.

The ConnectHome Initiative is a partnership between the federal government, local housing authorities, and internet service providers to provide free or low-cost internet access to families living in HUD-assisted housing. In Hawaii, five major internet service providers currently participate in the initiative, offering plans with no activation fees and rates starting at $9.95 per month for eligible households.

Additionally, some school districts and organizations in Hawaii offer their own programs to provide discounted or free internet access to students from low-income families. For example, the Department of Education’s Access Learning program provides qualifying students with discounted rates on home internet service.

Families can also check with their local libraries or community centers to see if they offer free public Wi-Fi access.

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

Hawaii has a few unique approaches to promoting internet affordability that set it apart from other states.

1. Free Public Wi-Fi Hotspots: Hawaii has implemented a program called “Hawaii WiFi” which provides free public Wi-Fi at various locations statewide, including airports, parks, and public transportation facilities. This allows residents to have access to the internet without having to pay for their own internet connection.

2. Broadband Hui: The Broadband Hui is a collaborative effort between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private entities in Hawaii to increase broadband access and affordability for all communities in the state. This partnership helps identify areas of need and develop solutions to address them.

3. BroadbandAdvisory Committee: Hawaii established a Broadband Advisory Committee that consists of experts, community leaders, and industry representatives who provide recommendations on how to improve broadband infrastructure and affordability.

4. Digital Equity Initiative: The state has also launched a Digital Equity Initiative that aims to bridge the digital divide by providing resources and support for underserved communities in improving their digital literacy skills and accessing affordable broadband services.

5. Community-Based Solutions: Hawaii encourages local communities to come up with their own solutions for increasing internet affordability. For example, some communities have established community networks where members share the cost of a high-speed internet connection, making it more affordable for everyone.

Overall, Hawaii takes a collaborative approach towards promoting internet affordability by involving various stakeholders and supporting community-based solutions rather than relying solely on government programs or initiatives. This approach allows for more targeted and effective solutions tailored to the specific needs of different communities in the state.

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

Yes, the government of Hawaii has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting high-speed broadband accessibility and affordability for all residents. These include:

1. Hawaii Broadband Initiative: This initiative was launched in 2009 by the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). It aims to accelerate the deployment of broadband infrastructure and increase access and adoption of high-speed internet throughout the state.

2. Broadband Mapping Project: The DBEDT has also conducted a broadband mapping project to determine the availability and quality of broadband services across the state. This information is used to identify underserved areas and develop strategies to improve broadband access.

3. eHawaii.gov: In collaboration with various government agencies, the eHawaii.gov program offers a variety of online government services to residents, making it easier for them to access important information and conduct transactions from their homes using high-speed internet.

4. Digital Equity Initiative: Launched in 2017 by the University of Hawaii, this initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by providing low-cost broadband service options and digital literacy training for low-income households.

5. Community Partnership Initiatives: Local governments in Hawaii have also established partnerships with telecommunication companies to provide discounted or free high-speed internet service to low-income households in their communities.

6. Broadband Hui Program: This program, launched in 2020 by the DBEDT, provides grants to small businesses, schools, and community organizations for projects that promote digital inclusion and connectivity through technology-based solutions.

7. Hawaiian Homelands Technology Initiatives: The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has implemented various initiatives such as offering subsidized broadband services to residents living on Hawaiian homestead lands and installing wireless communication towers on homestead communities.

8. Aloha Connects Innovation Program (ACIP): Started in 2013, ACIP provides funding for innovative projects that utilize technology to enhance educational opportunities, healthcare access, workforce development, and economic development for underserved communities in Hawaii.

Overall, the government of Hawaii continues to prioritize and invest in initiatives that promote high-speed broadband accessibility and affordability for all residents.

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

It is difficult to say definitively whether rural areas in Hawaii have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas, as this can vary depending on a number of factors, such as location and specific internet providers.

However, generally speaking, rural areas in Hawaii may face more challenges when it comes to accessing affordable internet services compared to urban areas. This is largely due to the fact that rural areas tend to have a lower population density and are located further away from telecommunication infrastructure, making it more expensive for providers to offer service.

In addition, many rural areas in Hawaii are isolated and situated on islands separated by large bodies of water, making it more difficult and costly for providers to lay cables and establish connections.

That said, efforts have been made in recent years by the state government and various organizations to improve internet access and affordability in rural parts of Hawaii. For example, initiatives such as the Broadband Initiative Program aim to expand high-speed internet access throughout the state, including in rural communities.

Overall, while there may still be some discrepancy between urban and rural areas in terms of internet access and affordability in Hawaii, efforts are being made to close this gap and improve access for all residents.

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

Community organizations can play a significant role in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Hawaii by raising awareness and voicing the needs and concerns of their communities. They can also work to collaborate with internet service providers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to identify solutions and push for policies that promote affordable internet access for all residents.

Some specific actions community organizations can take include conducting research and surveys to gather data on the current state of affordability in their communities, organizing public forums and discussions to increase awareness about the issue, collaborating with local governments to establish initiatives and programs aimed at increasing access to affordable internet services, and advocating for policy changes at the state level.

Additionally, community organizations can partner with advocacy groups that have similar goals or work together in statewide coalitions to amplify their voices and advocate for systemic change. By working together, these organizations can pool their resources, combine their expertise, and present a unified front in pushing for more accessible and affordable internet options in Hawaii.

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

Yes, Hawaii offers a tax credit for broadband infrastructure investments that specifically targets ISPs. This tax credit, known as the Broadband Infrastructure Development Tax Credit, allows ISPs to receive a tax credit for qualified costs associated with the construction or upgrade of broadband infrastructure in unserved or underserved areas of Hawaii. The amount of the tax credit is equal to 20% of the qualified costs incurred during the taxable year, up to a total of $250,000 per taxable year. Additionally, some local governments in Hawaii may offer incentives or subsidies for ISPs that provide high-speed internet services in their communities.

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

As of 2021, the government of Hawaii has made several efforts to increase transparency in its decision-making process regarding internet affordability.

Firstly, the state has established a website called “Hawaii Broadband Map” which provides information about broadband access and speed across the state. This map is regularly updated with data from providers and is accessible to the public, allowing for greater transparency in understanding broadband availability and disparities.

In addition, the government has created a Broadband Advisory Council which is responsible for collecting data, analyzing market trends, and making recommendations to policymakers on issues related to broadband accessibility and affordability. This council also holds regular open meetings that allow stakeholders to provide input and voice concerns about internet affordability in the state.

The state government also makes available various reports and studies related to broadband accessibility and affordability for public review. For example, a recent report by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs explored strategies for reducing broadband costs in Hawaii.

Moreover, the State Legislature requires publicly traded internet service providers (ISPs) to disclose accurate data on their coverage area and service speeds. This information is also made available on the Hawaii Broadband Map website for public viewing.

Overall, while there may be room for improvement, the government of Hawaii has taken steps towards increasing transparency in its decision-making process regarding internet affordability. The establishment of a dedicated council, public dissemination of data, and open meetings all contribute towards fostering greater understanding and accountability in how funds are allocated towards improving internet affordability in the state.

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

There are several strategies that Hawaii has employed to promote digital equity and ensure access to affordable internet for all residents.

1. Broadband Initiative: In 2012, the state launched the Broadband Initiative to promote the development of broadband infrastructure across the islands. This initiative seeks to increase high-speed internet availability and affordability in both rural and urban areas of Hawaii.

2. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has partnered with private companies to expand broadband coverage in underserved areas. For example, in 2019, the state partnered with Hawaiian Telecom to expand high-speed internet service to over 5,000 homes in rural areas.

3. Digital Literacy Programs: Hawaii has implemented various programs to improve digital literacy among residents, particularly those from low-income and marginalized communities. These programs aim to educate residents on how to use technology effectively and safely.

4. Internet Subsidies: The state offers subsidies for low-income families through federal programs like Lifeline and ConnectHome. These subsidies help low-income households afford internet service.

5. Enhanced School Connectivity: In order to bridge the digital divide among students, Hawaii has invested in upgrading school connectivity and providing devices for students who lack access at home.

6. Community Centers: Hawaii’s public libraries have become community centers offering free internet access and computer training classes that are open to all residents.

7. Internet Exchange Points (IXP): To improve internet speeds and reduce costs, the state has developed an IXP that enables Internet Service Providers (ISPs) within the islands to connect directly instead of routing traffic through mainland providers.

8. One-Stop Resource Portal: To address barriers faced by individuals when trying to obtain affordable internet options there is a “Deployed Fiber-to-the-Premise” map that indicates which locations have a particular provider available; automating block-level data collection; creating speed-test statistics; analysis mapping features; links & phone numbers for obtaining subsidized services (e.g., $9.95 Internet, etc.). The web portal also provides a list of helpful numbers and organizations and an availability search feature for Facebook’s Project Beacon.

9. Blue Zones Project: This initiative focuses on community well-being and has helped to increase access to technology in rural communities by providing tablets loaded with Vitality Games, Tunnels & Ladders, Heartville (emergency preparedness game), and apps for telemedicine for seniors living in rural areas that provide service enrichment while avoiding supply chain logistics established for other in-home elder care services enhanced through maps showing ICT Arrival Points connected rapidly.

10. Mobile Hotspots: In remote or underserved areas where fixed broadband is not available, the state provides mobile hotspots to schools and libraries as an affordable way to connect residents.

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

Yes, the state government in Hawaii works closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability. The State Broadband Initiative (SBI) program, led by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, collaborates with counties to develop strategies for broadband deployment and adoption. Additionally, the Hawaii State Legislature has established the Broadband Hui to coordinate efforts between state agencies and county governments regarding broadband development. This collaboration allows for a more coordinated approach to improving internet affordability and accessibility throughout Hawaii.

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

Compared to neighboring states, Hawaii has made significant efforts in promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability. In a report by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Hawaii ranked 26th out of 50 states in terms of broadband adoption and availability, higher than most of its neighboring states.

One factor contributing to this ranking is the state’s Aloha Broadband program, which aims to provide affordable internet access to low-income households. The program offers discounted high-speed internet service to eligible families and individuals through partnerships with local internet service providers.

Hawaii also has a strong community broadband network, with several municipal networks providing affordable broadband options for residents. This has helped increase competition in the market and drive down prices for consumers.

Furthermore, the state government has invested in expanding broadband infrastructure and improving digital literacy through initiatives like the Hawaii Broadband Initiative. These efforts have contributed to higher rates of internet adoption and affordability in the state compared to its neighbors.

However, challenges still remain, especially in rural areas where access to affordable high-speed internet may be limited. Overall, while there is room for improvement, Hawaii’s efforts in promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability exceed those of many neighboring states.

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

Yes, Hawaii has several long-term plans in place to address the issue of rising internet costs and ensure that high-speed internet is accessible for all residents. These include:

1. The Hawaii Broadband Initiative: This program was launched by the state government in 2011 with the goal of bringing affordable high-speed internet to all areas of Hawaii. As part of this initiative, the state has invested in infrastructure upgrades, funding for broadband pilot projects, and partnerships with local communities and providers.

2. The Rural Broadband Development Loan Program: This program offers low-interest loans to telecommunications companies to help them expand broadband infrastructure into rural areas where it may not be economically feasible otherwise.

3. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has entered into partnerships with private companies to increase broadband access in underserved areas. For example, Hawaiian Telcom has partnered with the state government to provide free Wi-Fi hotspots in schools and public libraries across the state.

4. Fiber Optic Network Expansion: In 2018, Gov. David Ige announced a $20 million investment in a statewide fiber optic network aimed at providing faster and more reliable internet access to residents.

5. Digital Equity Initiative: In 2020, a task force was formed by the state government to develop strategies and recommendations for advancing digital equity and bridging the digital divide in Hawaii.

Overall, these long-term plans aim to improve infrastructure, increase competition among providers, promote collaboration between public and private sectors, and prioritize underserved communities in order to make high-speed internet accessible for all residents of Hawaii.