Source: WTVD
According to WTVD, Governor Roy Cooper raised the need for digital connectivity at this year’s Semafor World Economy Summit. The summit is one of the most critical economic gatherings for world and national leaders.
At the Semafor World Economy Summit, Governor Cooper highlighted the government’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in North Carolina, even prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. He specifically mentioned the role of the Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which has brought connectivity to millions of people in the state through home internet subsidies. However, the ACP’s funding is set to expire at the end of this month without additional support from Congress.
Governor Cooper underscored the need for additional funding by using his time on stage at the Semafor World Economy Summit. According to WTVD, the Governor stated, “We really can’t afford…to have homes (not) connected, particularly when health care is so tied into this. As we come out of the pandemic, we know we have behavioral health, substance use disorder issues at unprecedented levels. We know we’ve got to get the treatment to people.”
Governor Cooper’s call for additional funding is not without support. There is a bipartisan consensus among Governors across the nation, and the Federal Communications Commission is also advocating for more funds. In fact, congressional Democrats have taken action by drafting legislation that would provide $7 billion dollars to supplement the ACP for continued service.
