On Tuesday, June 20th Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz and Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Commissioner Michelle Gilman announced the launch of a Digital Equity Survey. This survey is part of a multi-year and state-wide Digital Equity Plan that will work to improve Internet access and usage.
During their press conference at the East Hartford Public Library, Lieutenant Governor Bysiewicz emphasized how the pandemic highlighted access disparities, and how this survey will help the State gather the data needed to improve reliable access. Commissioner Gilman also highlighted a 360-degree approach with a focus on connectivity, infrastructure and education.
The School of Public Policy (SPP) will conduct the survey, which will be open through the end of this month (June 2023). Director Alkadry represented SPP at the press conference and connected the survey to our school’s mission of “advancing equity in the state through evidence-based research.”
The State’s formula share of federal funding is $17 million with opportunities for additional funds. These funds will address communities of color, folks with low income, people with disabilities, Veterans and incarcerated individuals. The Connecticut Center for Digital Equity Research (CCDER) was created with the planning grant, and will include SPP faculty and students.
Members of the SPP network will provide critical research to build the Digital Equity Plan. Our work will include focus groups, ACS data analysis and the Statewide resident survey, which again will be open through the end of June 2023. This work will result in both scholarly and applied research, and will continue SPP’s work in serving the State.
Learn more in the Lieutenant Governor’s recent press briefing, which also featured DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes, Executive Director of DAS’ Commission for Educational Technology Doug Casey, East Hartford Mayor Mike Walsh and Director of East Hartford Public Library Sarah Morgan.
How can you help? Share the survey and check out the DAS media toolkit and Digital Equity Plan for more information!