We’re thrilled to announce that Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock of Georgia and Congressman A. Donald McEachin of Virginia introduced the “Device Access for Every American Act” today. The bill would:
- Create a $400 device voucher for low-income Americans to purchase connected devices like laptops and tablets at retail locations;
- Permit up to two low-income individuals per household to receive a voucher, so families can receive multiple devices;
- Require the FCC to establish minimum standards for connected devices, including both new and refurbished devices; and
- Direct the FCC to collaborate with retailers, eligible individuals, and community-based organizations participating in the program.
NDIA supports the bill and urges the Senate and House to pass it to address the challenge that many families across the country face — that without working devices in the home, internet access is meaningless.
“We applaud Senator Warnock and Congressman McEachin for directly addressing the need for computers in the home,” said Angela Siefer, NDIA executive director. “About 40% of people who aren’t using the internet at home say it’s because it’s too expensive to have a computer, and 15% of US adults only use internet on a smartphone. Access to appropriate devices is essential to participate in today’s digital world.”