2021 Session Review: Broadband

The requirements of social distancing during the pandemic resulted in many doing school, work, and medical appointments from home over the internet. Our state also has a statutory goal of providing every business and residence access to at least one provider of broadband offering 150 Mbps symmetrical service (essentially fiber optic data speed) by 2028. See RCW 43.330.536 (Broadband office – Goals). Unlike with the provision of electricity or telephone service, the state imposes on no private sector providers a duty to serve those who request a hook-up. Lack of access to broadband and its affordability raised issues of equity, and the state’s appropriate policy response.