HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	2483
THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE, 2022
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO DIGITAL EQUITY.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 

     SECTION 1.  (a)  There is established the digital divide task force within the department of business, economic development, and tourism for administrative purposes.  The digital divide task force shall:

     (1)  Determine the percentage of:

          (A)  Households with computers; and

          (B)  Households with broadband subscriptions;

     (2)  Evaluate subscriptions rates and regional discrepancies;

     (3)  Identify the regions in the State:

          (A)  That are most impacted by the digital divide, by geographical location and population;

          (B)  Without broadband infrastructure; and

          (C)  With insufficient broadband infrastructure; and

     (4)  Report on the infrastructure needs for broadband support in the State, including the priority of needs for regions with underserved areas.

     The digital divide task force shall consult with broadband service providers and regional community groups in the performance of its duties.

     (b)  The digital divide task force shall consist of the following members:

     (1)  The strategic broadband coordinator of the Hawaii broadband and digital equity office, who shall serve as the chairperson; and

     (2)  One representative each as designated by the mayor of each respective county.

     The task force may enlist additional members with appropriate specialized expertise on the digital divide task force as necessary.  As determined by the chairperson, additional members may include representatives from:

     (1)  Associations and community-based organizations with a digital equity and access to broadband-focused mission;

     (2)  Regional community groups;

     (3)  The technology industry; and

     (4)  Various business sectors.

     (c)  Members of the digital divide task force shall serve without compensation.

     (d)  The digital divide task force shall submit a final report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2023 and shall be dissolved upon the submittal of its report.

     (e)  For the purposes of this Act, "digital divide" means the gap between the members of society who do not have access to computers or the Internet, and the members of society who have such access.

     SECTION 2.  This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

 

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________

 

 

Report Title:

Digital Divide Task Force; Report

 

Description:

Creates a digital divide task force.  Requires a report the Legislature.

 

 

 

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