MATSUI STATEMENT ON TRUMP’S EFFORT TO ROLL BACK DIGITAL EQUITY FUNDING

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s announcement that he would immediately end Digital Equity Act grant funding. 

“President Trump is once again launching an illegal, unilateral attack on the most underserved Americans — this time by trying to block Congressionally directed funding meant to invest in communities and build a better future,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Broadband access and digital literacy are far from luxuries. They decide who gets to participate and succeed in today’s economy. Digital Equity Act grants are a crucial tool to make sure that once Americans have access to the internet, they are able to make full use of it. From our children’s performance in school to our ability to find work, the digital divide has far reaching consequences for American families. Especially in our rural areas, millions of Americans continue to lack access to the resources and skills they need to capitalize on an increasingly digital world. That’s why I have worked my entire career to make sure equity is a central pillar of our long-term solutions. President Trump may be willing to jeopardize Americans’ future — but I will continue to fight back against his reckless attacks.”

The Digital Equity Act, included as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that promote digital equity and inclusion. In October of last year, California was awarded $70 million from the program to implement its Digital Equity Plan.

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