Take action to close the homework gap

Broadband internet is essential for our students.  Whether it’s for remote learning or for researching assignments, access is critical to learning.  The inequities in broadband access are causing a “homework gap” that is disproportionately impacting students of color and rural students.  Take action now to make broadband affordable and accessible.  

An analysis by Public Policy Associates, Inc. for the NEA showed that 18.5% of children ages 5-17 in Washington state lack access to broadband internet and a device.  While 13% of white children lack full access, the study showed that 33% of Latinx, 31% of Black, and 30% of Indigenous children lack access.  24% of children in non-metro households lack access and 12% of educators lack broadband access at home.

SHB 1336 would give public utility districts (PUDs), port districts, cities, towns, and counties the authority to provide broadband directly to families. 

The bill is currently in House Rules committee waiting to be scheduled for a floor vote.  Join us in calling on our state representatives to bring the bill to the floor and approve it.