Foster Introduces Legislation to Expand Broadband Access for Students

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) announced the introduction of the Closing the Digital Divide for Students Act to expand broadband access for low-income families in HUD-assisted housing. This bill would allow families living in HUD-assisted housing, whose children qualify for free or reduced lunch, to use federal assistance on broadband internet access.

Currently, families who live in HUD-assisted housing receive financial assistance for utility bills like electricity and gas. This legislation would expand what utilities are permissible, allowing families to use this assistance on basic broadband internet.

"Now more than ever, reliable internet access is essential for students to succeed," said Foster. "At a time in which school and technology are increasingly intertwined, students shouldn't be limited by the high price of internet access. This bill would help close the divide for the millions of students who lack broadband internet access in their home, allowing them to complete and succeed in their courses."

A copy of the bill is available here.