The Commission opened this rulemaking to address the “digital divide” that became more apparent with the COVID-19 pandemic as schools and business closed and families needed access to reliable and affordable internet service at home. According to Cal. Pub. Util. Code Sec. 281, the Commission must “encourage deployment of high-quality advanced communication services to all Californians that will promote economic growth, job creation, and the substantial social benefits of advanced information and communications technologies…” UCAN supports this directive and believes that reliable and affordable internet access is important for a fair and equitable society. Executive Director Edward Lopez is working with broadband expert Susan Baldwin to come up with practical solutions for internet access for all Californians.
