2023-07-25-ITIF-通过终止过时的宽带计划来维持负担得起的连接（英）_13页_235kb

Summary

This report, authored by Joe Kane from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), advocates for reforming the U.S. federal broadband subsidy programs by ending redundant and obsolete initiatives. The core arguments are:

1. Program Redundancy Issue: Current federal broadband programs, such as the High-Cost program, Lifeline, and ReConnect, are overlapping and inefficient. The introduction of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program provides sufficient funding and focus to replace these aging programs.

2. Sustainability of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): The ACP, which targets affordability for low-income households, is nearing its funding limit unless supplemented. Redirecting funds from programs like High-Cost, Lifeline, and ReConnect, which total approximately $6.43 billion, would make the ACP sustainable without raising consumer burdens.

3. Role of BEAD: BEAD, a $42.45 billion initiative, aims to bring broadband access to all Americans by funding infrastructure deployment where it is economically feasible. Non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite technology is recommended for areas where traditional terrestrial broadband deployment is prohibitively expensive, with a suggested maximum cost threshold of $15,000 per household.

4. Limitations of Subsidies: While subsidies can reduce barriers to broadband access, they cannot solve the entire digital divide. Non-financial barriers, such as lack of interest or relevance, require targeted digital inclusion efforts beyond subsidies.

5. Recommendations:

   • Eliminate High-Cost, Lifeline, and ReConnect programs.
   • Use the freed-up funds to sustain and enhance the ACP.
   • Transition from usage-based funding mechanisms to budget appropriations.
   • Promote satellite broadband where terrestrial deployment is not feasible.

Overall, the report highlights the need for a streamlined, modern approach to federal broadband funding, leveraging BEAD and the ACP to advance affordability and accessibility, while emphasizing the need for complementary efforts in digital inclusion.