High-speed internet has become essential to full participation in today’s economy and is increasingly considered the “fourth utility,” joining the more commonly recognized vital goods: water, electricity, and heat. From applying for jobs to doing homework, access to fast, reliable internet is crucial to making the most of opportunities in today’s world.


Based on the facts that broadband access is necessary to participate in today’s economy, that broadband markets are increasingly monopolized because of deregulation, and that deregulation enables digital redlining, we argue that the public sector has a role to play in bridging the chasms of digital equity between those who have broadband access and those who do not.