Findings — Us Code Code § 1701

Us Code Code § 1701 — Findings. Reproduced from the official United States Code, with a citation summary, verification link, and related provisions.

§ 1701. Findings

Congress finds the following:

(1) Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States.

(2) The persistent "digital divide" in the United States is a barrier to the economic competitiveness of the United States and equitable distribution of essential public services, including health care and education.

(3) The digital divide disproportionately affects communities of color, lower-income areas, and rural areas, and the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.

(4) In many communities across the country, increased competition among broadband providers has the potential to offer consumers more affordable, high-quality options for broadband service.

(5) The 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic has underscored the critical importance of affordable, high-speed broadband for individuals, families, and communities to be able to work, learn, and connect remotely while supporting social distancing.

(Pub. L. 117–58, div. F, title I, §60101, Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 1182.)


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title

Pub. L. 117–58, div. F, title III, §60301, Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 1209, provided that: "This title [enacting subchapter II of this chapter] may be cited as the 'Digital Equity Act of 2021'."

About This Section

47 U.S.C. § 1701 is part of Title 47 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 47 U.S.C. § 1701. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

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Sources

Source: official Us Code text · Last verified 2026-08-27

At a glance

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Common questions

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It addresses "Findings". Read the section together with the surrounding provisions listed under "Nearby provisions" for the full picture.

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