Landmark Legislation to End Digital Discrimination in California Passes the Assembly Communications and Conveyance Committee

SACRAMENTO, CA, April 10, 2024 – The Michelson Center for Public Policy commends the Assembly Communications and Conveyance Committee for passing Assembly Bill 2239, authored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta. This legislation would make California the first state in the nation to legally define “digital discrimination” and establish mechanisms to prevent and remedy discriminatory practices that perpetuate the digital divide. 

"Today marks a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide in California, and we commend Assemblymember Mia Bonta for her exceptional leadership," said Cristal Mojica, Senior Program Manager of Digital Equity at the Michelson Center for Public Policy. "With the outcome of today's vote, we also acknowledge Chair Tasha Boerner and members of the committee who recognized the critical need to tackle digital disparities in our communities. AB 2239 represents a crucial advancement in guaranteeing that underserved communities have access to affordable, reliable, and fast internet."

AB 2239 is pivotal as the state directs public funds into expanding broadband infrastructure for communities that have been consistently neglected or insufficiently served by major Internet providers. Addressing digital discrimination is a key step in effectively bridging the digital divide.

Establishing the definition of digital discrimination for California is crucial for the equitable allocation of the state's unprecedented investment—nearly $8 billion from state and federal sources—in broadband infrastructure. AB 2239 seeks to define "digital discrimination of access" as any policy or practice that unequally affects a consumer's ability to use broadband internet services based on income, race, ethnicity, color, religion, or national origin. Additionally, the bill requires that the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) include rules for the California Advanced Services Fund grant programs for guidance in prohibiting digital discrimination of access.

The California Alliance for Digital Equity (CADE) and the Michelson Center for Public Policy are proud co-sponsors of this legislation. Numerous digital equity and community organizations across the state strongly voiced their support during the committee hearing. The legislation moves to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration and is expected to be heard in May 2024.

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