In a recent op-ed featured in the Miami Herald, Gunster government affairs consultant Ronald A. Brisé pens a thought piece on how the digital divide is holding Florida back. Only half of the Americans who earn less than $30,000 a year have internet access. In Florida, almost 2.3 million households have limited access to mobile phone and broadband wireless internet service. These Floridians live all over the state; many are in rural communities, and many are elderly or poor.
This session, the Florida Legislature is considering SB 742 and HB 1381, which would expand access to mobile phone and internet services by allowing new eligible telecommunications carriers to operate in Florida. In closing, Brisé stated that "Gone are the days when we can tolerate a separation between the 'haves' and 'have-nots' when it comes to cell and internet access. It’s time to level the playing field for all Floridians and close this digital divide."
Ron Brisé is an accomplished commissioner, legislative leader and senior executive with more than 20 years of experience in telecom, energy, utilities, government and business. His government experience includes serving in the Florida legislature as democratic whip as well as serving as a former chair of the Florida Public Service Commission. He is a member of Gunster's government affairs law & lobbying practice.
Read the full article: Legislature can help low-income Floridians get digital access. It could save their lives (opinion)
