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Too expensive for you to get online? LA County wants to know
Many Angelenos don't have internet access at home
(
Ashley Balderrama
/
LAist
)
Topline:
Los Angeles County wants to better understand how people use the internet and the challenges they face getting online. It's asking residents to fill out a quick anonymous survey. The responses will allow the county to tailor its services and support programs to help close L.A.’s digital divide.
Why it matters: More than 140,000 households in L.A. County don’t have internet at home, according to U.S. Census data. But officials say the issue runs deeper: Not all residents own fully functioning computers, and some people have to share their devices with family members. Many others rely on computers and Wi-Fi connections provided by schools, employers or at public libraries. L.A. County has been working to expand internet access through its Delete the Divide initiative.
Why now: The digital divide may have been getting worse; it's been almost a year since millions of low-income Californians lost a monthly federal discount on their home Wi-Fi bill. Officials say the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program has likely resulted in fewer households being connected to fast, reliable internet.
Sponsored message
How to help: The survey can be found here: bit.ly/LACountyInternetuse.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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