Pennsylvania has received approval for $20 million in funding for digital connectivity projects, a significant step towards bridging the nation's digital divide. This investment forms part of the Investing in America Agenda.

The allocated $20 million will be channeled into Pennsylvania's Digital Access Opportunity Grant Program, aimed at enhancing access to laptops, tablets, desktop computers, and Wi-Fi devices for Pennsylvanians. This funding builds on nearly $245 million previously invested in broadband infrastructure projects and multi-purpose community facilities within the state. According to a press release by the Department of the Treasury, the devices procured through this program will be accessible in both private and public spaces via loan programs with community anchor institutions. The program is projected to benefit approximately 12,000 people annually.

The American Rescue Plan Capital Projects Fund (CPF) provides a total of $10 billion in funding to states and territories across the United States for critical capital projects. The financing of these initiatives aims to expand economic opportunities and provide more American citizens with access to high-speed internet services. As stated by the Department of the Treasury, over $200 million in CPF funding was awarded last year for high-speed internet projects in Pennsylvania alone. These investments connected 44,000 homes and businesses to high-speed internet.

Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) emphasized the importance of closing the digital divide as society becomes increasingly digitized. "Pennsylvania’s economic future depends on reliable high-speed internet access for every community—rural, urban, and everything in between," said Casey. "This funding won’t just provide more laptops and wi-fi devices to people who need them; it will help break down the barrier that’s keeping a young mother from higher education, a small business from reaching a new market, and a grandparent from staying in touch with their grandkids."