Partial revival of Digital Equity Act in the US
Court ruling forces partial restart of broadband access program
1Fate of the Digital Equity Act
The Digital Equity Act passed by Congress in 2021 created three grant programs worth $2.75 billion to address broadband access disparities. The Biden administration began distributing $60 million in planning grants to states in 2022. However, the Trump administration decided to terminate these programs in May 2025.
2Court's critical decision
A federal court ruled against the Trump administration's attempt to completely ignore the law. The government announced it would start accepting grant applications from December 2025. However, the court also ruled that race or ethnicity cannot be used as criteria for grant distribution.
3Changes in grant criteria
The grant program is being restarted but with new rules. Funds can now only be distributed based on factors like income level, age, and disability status. The Trump administration considers this decision a partial victory.
4Trump's criticism of the law
Former President Trump called the Digital Equity Act 'racist and unconstitutional.' His administration claims the program was designed to favor certain ethnic groups. This argument was partially accepted by the court.
5Biden administration's implementation
The Biden administration launched the program in 2022 by distributing $60 million in planning grants to states. In 2024, applications began to be accepted for the distribution of the remaining $2.75 billion. Trump's decision to terminate the program interrupted this process.
6Digital divide issue
Approximately 21 million Americans lack broadband internet access. This rate is twice as high in rural areas compared to urban ones. The Digital Equity Act specifically targeted low-income and rural residents.
7Program technical details
Grants will be distributed in three main categories: infrastructure development, digital literacy training, and affordable device provision. Each state will receive different funding amounts based on population and digital inequality levels.
8Digital equality struggle
The court decision marked a significant turning point in the fight for digital equality in the US. The partial continuation of the program brings hope to millions of rural Americans. However, the impact of the changed criteria remains to be seen.
Original article: Ars Technica - All content — ABD'de Dijital Eşitlik Yasası'nda kısmi geri dönüş