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

The state of Wisconsin has implemented several initiatives to address high internet costs for low-income families, including:

1. Broadband Expansion Grant Program: The state has allocated funds to provide grants for broadband infrastructure development in underserved and unserved areas. This will help expand access to affordable internet services for low-income families.

2. Wisconsin Lifeline Program: This federal program provides discounted phone and internet services for qualifying low-income households. Eligible residents can receive up to $9.25 per month off their internet bill.

3. Internet Service Provider (ISP) Partnerships: The state has established partnerships with ISPs to provide low-cost or discounted internet plans specifically for low-income families. These partnerships also often include free or reduced-cost installation fees and equipment rental.

4. Public Wi-Fi Hotspots: The state has worked with local communities and organizations to deploy public Wi-Fi hotspots in areas where there is a lack of reliable internet options. This provides an accessible option for low-income families who may not be able to afford home internet service.

5. Digital Equity Initiative: The state has launched the Wisconsin Digital Equity Initiative, which aims to bridge the digital divide by providing resources and support for digital literacy, access, and affordability for all residents, including those from low-income backgrounds.

6. Low-Income Access Plan (LIAP): Starting in 2022, the state will implement a new initiative that provides a discount on home broadband service for eligible households with a member receiving designated government benefits such as Medicaid or SNAP.

Overall, Wisconsin is actively working towards increasing accessibility and reducing costs of internet services for low-income families through various programs and partnerships.

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

1. Wisconsin Lifeline Program: This program provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households to ensure they have access to the necessary communication tools.

2. Connect America Fund (CAF): This federal program provides funding to telecommunication companies to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas of Wisconsin.

3. BadgerNet Converged Public Safety Network: This network provides high-speed internet connections for public agencies and institutions in rural areas, including schools, libraries, hospitals, and emergency services.

4. Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Telecommunications Assistance Program (TAP): This program offers financial assistance to low-income residents who cannot afford basic telephone service or broadband internet.

5. Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF): This federal program is designed to bring high-speed broadband access to rural areas across the country, including parts of Wisconsin.

6. Wisconsin Broadband Expansion Grant Program: This state program offers grants to telecommunication companies that plan to expand broadband infrastructure and improve internet speeds in underserved areas.

7. Tribal Link Up Program: This federal program helps Native American tribes in Wisconsin fund the installation of telecommunications services on their reservations.

8. Universal Service Fund (USF): This federal fund includes programs such as the Schools and Libraries Program (E-Rate) which provides discounts for Wi-Fi hotspots and other devices used for distance learning purposes in schools and libraries.

9. Spectrum Internet Assist: This low-cost internet program from Charter Communications is available for households with a student receiving National School Lunch Program benefits, senior citizens 65 years or older who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or eligible low-income populations that do not have any Charter Spectrum Internet services at home).

10. Comcast Internet Essentials: This affordable internet option from Comcast is available for low-income families with children receiving free or reduced-price school lunches through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). It also extends eligibility to housing-assistance recipients including Public Housing, Housing Choice Voucher, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) programs.

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

The government of Wisconsin is working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents in several ways:

1. Expansion of Broadband Access: One of the major initiatives of the state government is to expand broadband access to underserved and rural areas. The Forward Broadband program, launched in 2019, aims to provide high-speed internet access to every community in the state.

2. State Grant Programs: The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) offers various grant programs to increase broadband access and affordability for low-income households, schools, libraries, and healthcare facilities. These grants fund infrastructure development and digital literacy training.

3. Affordable Connectivity Initiative: The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) launched this initiative in partnership with private providers to provide affordable high-speed internet options for low-income households.

4. Digital Inclusion Conference: The annual “Statewide Digital Inclusion Conference” brings together stakeholders from across sectors to discuss strategies for increasing digital access and affordability.

5. Net Neutrality Protection Laws: In 2018, Wisconsin passed a law protecting net neutrality within the state, ensuring that all websites are treated equally by internet service providers regardless of their content or source.

6. Digital Literacy Programs: The DPI ConnectEd program provides funding for schools’ technology plans and digital literacy training for students, teachers, parents, and community members.

7. Telecommunication Modernization Efforts: The PSC has adopted regulatory policies that promote modernization efforts by telecommunication companies to improve broadband access at lower costs.

8. COVID-19 Response: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the state provided emergency funding for distance learning initiatives to ensure students have equal access to online education resources while staying at home.

Overall, these efforts demonstrate a commitment from the government of Wisconsin towards bridging the digital divide and promoting internet affordability for all residents in the state.

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

One initiative is the Broadband Expansion Grant Program, which provides funding to support the deployment of broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas of the state. This program offers grants to telecommunication providers to offset the high costs associated with expanding broadband service to these areas.

Another incentive is the Wisconsin Technology Innovation Initiative (Wi3), which offers tax credits to ISPs that invest in broadband infrastructure in rural and underserved areas.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin also has a Universal Service Fund, which provides subsidies to ISPs that offer discounted internet services to low-income households.

The state also has a Digital Learning Lab, which partners with ISPs and local communities to provide affordable internet options for students and families.

Additionally, the state has implemented various education and outreach efforts to promote digital literacy and increase demand for affordable internet services. These efforts include partnerships with community organizations, libraries, and schools to educate residents about available plans and how to access them.

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

In Wisconsin, the Public Service Commission is responsible for overseeing internet affordability programs. The Commission works to ensure that essential utility services, including broadband internet, are accessible and affordable for all residents of the state. They do this through regulation of utility rates and services, as well as through various programs and initiatives aimed at promoting broadband deployment and adoption.

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

Wisconsin uses multiple metrics and strategies to measure and track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents:

1. Broadband Access Mapping: Wisconsin has a broadband mapping program that collects data from internet service providers (ISPs) on their service availability in the state. This data is used to create an interactive map that shows the areas with high-speed internet access and those without.

2. Broadband Speed Tests: The state also conducts broadband speed tests to measure actual internet speeds experienced by residents. This information is used to identify underserved areas and prioritize them for broadband infrastructure investments.

3. National Broadband Map: Wisconsin participates in the National Broadband Map project, which gathers broadband coverage data from ISPs nationwide. This allows for comparisons between states and helps identify areas where Wisconsin could improve.

4. Internet Connectivity Initiatives: The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) administers several programs aimed at expanding internet access in underserved and unserved areas of the state. These include the Broadband Expansion Grant Program, which funds projects to extend high-speed internet to underserved communities.

5. Educational Efforts: The PSC works with local organizations, such as libraries, schools, and community centers, to educate residents about available internet options and resources for improving digital literacy skills.

6. Partnership with ISPs: The PSC collaborates with ISPs to increase broadband access in underserved areas through public-private partnerships.

7. Statewide Strategic Plan: In 2018, the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband recommended a statewide strategic plan for increasing internet access in Wisconsin, which includes goals for improving affordability and reducing the digital divide.

By utilizing these metrics and strategies, Wisconsin is able to monitor its progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents and make informed decisions on how best to address any gaps or challenges that arise.

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

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

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This is a federal program that provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. In Wisconsin, this program is administered by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and offered by various telecommunications companies such as AT&T, CenturyLink, Spectrum, and TDS Telecom.

2. Broadband Expansion Grant Program: This is a state program that funds broadband infrastructure projects in underserved areas of Wisconsin. The grant money is provided to private companies such as AT&T, CenturyLink, and TDS Telecom to help them build or upgrade their networks and provide affordable internet service to residents.

3. Connect America Fund: This is another federal program that supports the deployment of broadband services in rural areas. In Wisconsin, this fund has been awarded to several private companies including AT&T, Frontier Communications, and CenturyLink to expand their high-speed internet offerings at affordable prices.

4. Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association Initiative: The WSTA works with its member telecommunications companies to promote affordable access to high-speed internet in rural areas of the state through initiatives like broadband mapping and advocacy for policies that support network investments.

5. Partnership for a Connected Future: This partnership between the City of Milwaukee and local internet service providers aims to bridge the digital divide by providing low-cost internet options for low-income families and promoting digital literacy programs.

6. Enterprise Broadband Alliance: This alliance between businesses and local governments in western Wisconsin helps connect businesses with reliable high-speed internet options at affordable prices.

7. Municipal Partnerships: Several municipalities throughout Wisconsin have partnered with private companies to offer affordable broadband services to their residents. For example, Madison’s city-owned utility company has partnered with local provider TDS Telecom to offer a gigabit fiber optic network at competitive prices.

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

Yes, Wisconsin offers several programs to help low-income households with the cost of internet service. These include:

1. Lifeline Program: This federal program provides a monthly discount of $9.25 off the cost of internet service for eligible low-income households.

2. Wisconsin Lifeline and Emergency Broadband Benefit Programs: These programs provide an additional state subsidy of up to $10 for eligible households that are already receiving the federal Lifeline discount.

3. Internet Discounts for Low-Income Households: Some internet service providers in Wisconsin offer discounted rates for low-income households, such as Spectrum, AT&T, and WI Connect.

4. Connecting Wisconsin Grants: This grant program offers funding to organizations to support the deployment of broadband infrastructure in underserved areas, which can help make internet service more affordable for low-income households.

5. Technology Assistance Grant Program: This program offers grants to schools and libraries in underserved areas to purchase technology equipment and services for their students and patrons, which can include discounts on internet services.

6. Digital Bridge Tax Credit Program: This tax credit program allows businesses or individuals who donate to organizations working on digital inclusion projects to receive a credit on their state income taxes.

For more information about these programs and eligibility requirements, individuals can visit the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin website.

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

Yes, Wisconsin has several state-level regulations and policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services.

1. State Broadband Expansion Grant Program: In 2019, the Wisconsin legislature established a $48 million Broadband Expansion Grant Program to help fund broadband infrastructure projects in underserved areas of the state.

2. Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs): The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) regulates CLECs, which are telecom companies that compete with traditional ISPs. This regulation helps promote competition and keep prices in check.

3. Universal Service Fund (USF) Assessment: The PSCW requires all telecommunications providers to pay into the USF, which helps fund universal telephone and internet service throughout the state.

4. Price Regulation for Basic Local Exchange Services: The PSCW also regulates basic local exchange services provided by telecommunications carriers and sets maximum rates that they can charge customers.

5. Net Neutrality Legislation: In 2019, Governor Tony Evers signed an executive order directing state agencies to uphold net neutrality principles and not do business with any ISP that blocks or throttles content or charges different rates for different types of data.

6. Consumer Protection Laws: Wisconsin’s consumer protection laws prohibit unfair or deceptive practices, including false advertising or overcharging for services.

In addition to these measures, there are ongoing efforts at both the state and federal level to expand broadband access and affordability in Wisconsin.

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

Yes, there are several government programs that provide discounted or free high-speed internet for low-income families in Wisconsin. Some of these programs include:

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program offers a discount on phone or internet service for eligible low-income individuals and families. To qualify, household income must be 135% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you must participate in certain government assistance programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI.

2. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP provides financial assistance to help low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. In some states, LIHEAP funds can also be used towards paying for internet services.

3. ConnectHome: ConnectHome is an initiative launched by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to bridge the digital divide for residents living in HUD-assisted housing. In Wisconsin, there are currently 16 communities participating in this program.

4. Internet Essentials: This program is offered by Comcast and provides low-cost internet access for eligible households with children receiving free or reduced school lunches through the National School Lunch Program.

5. EveryoneOn: EveryoneOn is a national nonprofit that helps connect low-income individuals and families to affordable internet service providers in their area.

To find out if you qualify for any of these programs and to apply, you can visit their websites or contact your local government office.

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

Wisconsin’s approach to promoting internet affordability differs from other states in several ways:

1. Public-Private Partnerships: Wisconsin has actively collaborated with public and private entities to expand broadband access. The state partners with internet service providers (ISPs) to develop and implement cost-effective broadband solutions.

2. State Broadband Office: Wisconsin created a State Broadband Office within the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to oversee the development and implementation of broadband initiatives. This office conducts research, collects data, and coordinates with local governments and ISPs to expand broadband access.

3. Targeted Funding: Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, Wisconsin has focused on targeted funding for underserved areas through the Broadband Expansion Grant Program. This program provides financial assistance to areas that lack adequate internet access, incentivizing ISPs to invest in these communities.

4. Collaboration with Local Governments: Wisconsin encourages collaboration between local governments, communities, and ISPs through its partnership model. This model allows municipalities to work directly with ISPs to identify and address local needs.

5. Community-based Solutions: The state also supports community-based solutions by empowering local organizations and nonprofits with technical assistance, training, and resources to help them provide access in their communities.

6. Emphasis on High-Speed Connections: While some states focus on providing basic internet connectivity to households, Wisconsin’s efforts also prioritize access to high-speed connections that meet or exceed federal speed standards.

7. Focus on Rural Areas: With its large rural population, Wisconsin places a strong emphasis on expanding broadband access in rural areas. The state recognizes the significant impact that high-speed internet can have on rural economies and is committed to improving connectivity in these underserved areas.

8.Funding Flexibility: Wisconsin’s Broadband Expansion Grant Program offers flexibility in how funds can be used by ISPs, allowing them to tailor projects based on specific community needs.

9.Leveraging Federal Funds: The state has successfully leveraged federal funding from sources such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and USDA Rural Utilities Service to supplement state funding and support broadband expansion initiatives.

10. Data-Driven Approach: Wisconsin’s broadband initiatives are based on comprehensive data collection and analysis, which helps identify areas most in need of improved connectivity and informs decision-making on resource allocation.

11. Embracing Emerging Technologies: Wisconsin is also exploring opportunities for leveraging emerging technologies like 5G networks and satellite internet to further expand access in remote and geographically-challenged areas.

Overall, Wisconsin’s approach to promoting internet affordability is a collaborative, targeted, and data-driven effort that prioritizes expanding broadband access in rural areas and using a variety of solutions to address different community needs.

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

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

1. Broadband Forward! Community Certification Program: This program allows local communities to apply for certification as a “Broadband Forward! Community,” which signifies that they have taken steps to reduce barriers and streamline regulations for broadband infrastructure development.

2. Broadband Expansion Grant Program: Through this program, the state provides funding to help expand high-speed internet access in underserved areas of Wisconsin.

3. Rural Broadband Expansion Pilot Program: This pilot program provides grants and loans to help rural communities build fiber-optic networks and deploy other advanced broadband technologies.

4. Digital Navigator Program: This program matches digital navigators with individuals who lack the skills or resources needed to access essential online services. The navigators help these individuals access devices, internet service, and training.

5. Broadband Work Group: The state created a broadband work group in 2019 to identify barriers to broadband expansion and develop strategies for increasing access.

6. Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal: The state’s business portal includes information on available broadband providers’ services in each community, as well as information on incentives for businesses looking to expand their digital infrastructure in Wisconsin.

7. Public-Private Partnerships: The government of Wisconsin encourages public-private partnerships between local governments and private companies to expand high-speed broadband access in underserved areas.

8. Smart Cities Initiative: Under this initiative, the state is investing $100 million over eight years to create a smart city platform that will leverage high-speed internet connectivity throughout urban centers in Wisconsin.

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

No, rural areas in Wisconsin do not have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), 24% of people living in rural areas in Wisconsin lack access to high-speed broadband internet, compared to only 2% in urban areas. This is largely due to the cost and difficulty of providing infrastructure for broadband internet services in remote and sparsely populated rural areas. Additionally, rural communities may have fewer options for internet service providers, leading to less competition and potentially higher prices for customers. Efforts are being made at the federal and state level to improve broadband access in rural areas through grants and other programs, but there is still a significant disparity between urban and rural areas in terms of access to affordable internet services.

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

Community organizations play a critical role in advocating for more affordable internet options in Wisconsin. They can raise awareness about the issue and how it impacts individuals and communities, educate policymakers and the public about potential solutions, and work with local and state government officials to implement policies that increase access to affordable internet.

Community organizations can also partner with internet service providers and advocate for them to offer more affordable plans or expand their services to low-income areas. They can also provide resources and assistance to individuals and families who may struggle to afford internet access, such as helping them find low-cost plans or providing devices or equipment.

Additionally, community organizations can collaborate with other advocacy groups working towards similar goals, creating a stronger collective voice to push for change at the state level. By working together, these organizations can have a greater impact on shaping policies that promote affordability and accessibility of high-speed internet in Wisconsin.

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

Yes, there are various tax credits and incentives available to ISPs in Wisconsin that can help lower the cost of high-speed internet services. These include:

1. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF): The RDOF is a $20.4 billion fund that provides subsidies to ISPs to bring high-speed broadband to underserved and unserved rural areas. Eligible ISPs can receive funding for up to 10 years to offset the costs of deploying broadband infrastructure.

2. Wisconsin Business Development Tax Credit: This is a refundable tax credit that provides assistance for businesses involved in manufacturing, agricultural processing, or information technology projects located in designated counties. The amount of credit is based on the value of eligible capital investment, job creation, employee training expenses, and research and development expenditures.

3. Wisconsin Angel Investment Tax Credit: This program offers a 25% tax credit for investments made in qualified businesses with the potential for growth and job creation in designated counties.

4. Broadband Economic Development Tax Credit: This incentive program encourages broadband expansion by providing a tax credit to eligible applicants who install or upgrade broadband facilities.

5. State Sales Tax Exemption for Telecommunications Infrastructure: This exemption covers equipment or transmission lines used primarily to provide internet access services and allows qualifying ISPs to avoid paying state sales tax on these items.

6. Municipal Capital Access Program (M-CAP): M-CAP provides low-cost loans for municipally owned utilities, cooperatives, and nonprofit corporations involved in telecommunications projects.

It’s best to consult with a tax advisor or contact the relevant government agencies for more information on these programs and how to apply for them.

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

The transparency of the government of Wisconsin’s decision-making process when it comes to allocating funds towards improving internet affordability can vary. The state has various programs and initiatives that aim to improve broadband access and affordability, such as the Broadband Expansion Grant Program and the Public Service Commission’s Broadband Deployment Audit. These programs typically involve a public application process and have publicly available selection criteria. Additionally, Wisconsin has an Open Records Law which allows individuals to request access to government records, including records related to budget decisions.

However, some critics argue that the state could do more to increase transparency and accountability in its decision-making processes related to broadband affordability. They point out that there is no centralized entity in Wisconsin responsible for overseeing broadband deployment or coordinating efforts between various agencies and departments. This lack of coordination can make it difficult for the public to understand how decisions are made and who is ultimately accountable for addressing internet affordability issues.

Moreover, there have been concerns about potential conflicts of interest in the allocation of broadband funds, with some critics arguing that certain providers may receive preferential treatment in funding decisions. Without clear guidelines and procedures for evaluating proposals and awarding funds, it can be challenging for the public to assess whether funding decisions are being made fairly and transparently.

Overall, while there are efforts towards transparency in decision-making related to improving internet affordability in Wisconsin, there is room for improvement in terms of coordination and accountability.

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

Wisconsin has employed several strategies to promote digital equity and ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet, including:

1. Broadband Expansion Grant Program: The state has established a grant program to fund broadband infrastructure projects in underserved and unserved areas of the state. This helps bring high-speed internet access to rural and low-income communities.

2. Public-Private Partnerships: Wisconsin has actively encouraged partnerships between government entities, private companies, and local communities to build broadband infrastructure and expand services in areas with limited or no internet access.

3. Internet for Schools and Libraries: The state has implemented programs such as TEACH Wisconsin and BadgerNet Converged Network, which provide discounted or free high-speed internet connections to eligible schools, libraries, and other educational institutions.

4. Digital Literacy Training: Wisconsin offers various digital literacy programs through public libraries, community centers, and other organizations. These programs aim to bridge the digital divide by providing training on how to use technology effectively.

5. Public Wi-Fi Access: The state provides public Wi-Fi hotspots at select locations, including parks, libraries, and community centers in underserved areas.

6. Lifeline Assistance Program: Wisconsin participates in the federally funded Lifeline Assistance Program, which offers discounted or free phone and internet services to eligible low-income households.

7. Net Neutrality Protections: In 2018, Wisconsin enacted legislation that ensures net neutrality protections for its residents by requiring ISPs that receive state funds to adhere to net neutrality principles.

8. Digital Inclusion Task Force: The governor established a task force focused on addressing issues related to digital inclusion in the state. The task force is responsible for identifying gaps in broadband availability and developing strategies to address them.

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

Yes, the state government in Wisconsin works closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability. In 2020, Governor Tony Evers launched the “PSC Broadband Expansion Grant Program” which aims to provide funding for broadband infrastructure projects in unserved and underserved areas of the state. This program prioritizes partnerships between state and local governments, private companies, and community-based organizations to expand high-speed internet access to low-income households in rural and urban areas.

Additionally, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) has a Local Government Internet Access Grant Program that provides matching funds to local governments for projects addressing affordable internet access. The PSC also offers resources and support to assist municipalities in developing broadband plans and connecting with broadband providers.

Moreover, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) works with local governments to encourage investment in broadband infrastructure through their Community Development Block Grant program. This program provides funds for improving economic development opportunities in low- to moderate-income areas of the state.

Overall, there is strong collaboration between state and local governments in Wisconsin towards improving internet affordability for all residents.

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

According to a 2021 report by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Wisconsin ranks below its neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability. Specifically, the report found that:

1. Minnesota: Ranked 5th nationwide for promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability, with about 90% of households having access to high-speed broadband and relatively low broadband subscription costs.

2. Illinois: Ranked 12th nationwide for promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability, with about 77% of households having access to high-speed broadband and relatively low broadband subscription costs.

3. Iowa: Ranked 17th nationwide for promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability, with about 69% of households having access to high-speed broadband and relatively low broadband subscription costs.

4. Michigan: Ranked 20th nationwide for promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability, with about 67% of households having access to high-speed broadband and relatively low broadband subscription costs.

5. Wisconsin: Ranked 34th nationwide for promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability, with about 61% of households having access to high-speed broadband and relatively higher-than-average broadband subscription costs compared to neighboring states.

Overall, while Wisconsin does have fairly widespread availability of high-speed internet, there is room for improvement in terms of making it more affordable for all residents.

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

Yes, there are long-term plans in place in Wisconsin to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents. Some key initiatives include:

1. The Wisconsin Broadband Office: In 2018, the state government created the Wisconsin Broadband Office within the Public Service Commission to expand broadband access across the state. The office is responsible for coordinating broadband expansion efforts, providing technical assistance to local communities, and advocating for policies that will help improve broadband connectivity.

2. Broadband Expansion Grant Program: The state has allocated significant funding for broadband infrastructure through its Broadband Expansion Grant Program. In 2020, Governor Tony Evers invested $24 million in grant funds to support 72 projects that will provide faster broadband speeds to rural areas.

3. Digital Equity Grants: Another initiative launched by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) is the Digital Equity program, which aims to increase internet access and digital literacy for underserved populations. The DPI awarded grants totaling $1 million in 2020-2021 to organizations working on projects that bridge the digital divide.

4. State and Federal Partnerships: Wisconsin has also pursued partnerships with federal agencies such as the USDA and FCC to secure additional funding for broadband expansion efforts.

5. Legislative Efforts: There have been numerous bills introduced in the state legislature aimed at promoting broadband expansion and addressing affordability issues. Some of these bills seek to create a “Broadband Ready Community” designation, streamline deployment processes, and incentivize providers to expand into unserved areas.

Overall, these efforts demonstrate a commitment from state leaders to improve internet access and affordability for all residents in Wisconsin over the long term.