The US Senate has voted to pull the plug on a program that provided free Wi-Fi hotspots to schools and libraries, aiming to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. The move marks a significant setback for efforts to increase internet access, particularly among low-income households and rural areas.

The program, initiated by former FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, utilized funds from the $2.6 billion federal E-Rate program to enable schools and libraries to lend out Wi-Fi hotspots to individuals with limited or no internet access at home. The initiative was seen as a crucial step towards addressing the country's persistent digital divide, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) argued that the program violated the Communications Act, which limits the use of E-Rate funds to classrooms and libraries. Thune's stance was echoed by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who has been critical of consumer protection programs and has worked to roll back subsidies aimed at increasing US internet access.

Proponents of the program, including FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez, have expressed concerns that the decision will exacerbate economic disparities. In a statement, Gomez noted that the vote risks widening the gap between those with sufficient internet access and those without. A recent study cited by TechDirt found that the program generated between $28.9 and $29.5 billion in savings annually, thanks to expanded access to affordable internet and remote telehealth services.

The move is part of a broader trend of GOP-led efforts to reduce spending on programs aimed at increasing internet access. This includes attempts to roll back the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides subsidies to low-income households to help them afford internet services.

The implications of this decision are far-reaching, particularly for rural and low-income communities that rely heavily on these programs to access essential online services. As the digital divide continues to grow, it remains to be seen how policymakers will address this critical issue and ensure that all Americans have access to reliable and affordable internet connectivity.

In the meantime, advocates for digital equity will be closely watching the fallout from this decision and pushing for alternative solutions to address the country's persistent internet access gaps. As the US continues to lag behind other developed nations in terms of internet access and affordability, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to fully participate in the digital economy.