[20210812]IF11901_2021《数字权益法》.pdf

https:/crsreports.congress.gov August 12, 2021The Digital Equity Act of 2021Introduction The Digital Equity Act is included in the Senate-passed version of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (H.R. 3684). Submitted as an amendment in the nature of a substitute (S.Amdt. 2137) on August 1, 2021, by Senator Charles Schumer for Senator Kyrsten Sinema, it passed by the Senate August 10, 2021. The final language of the act was not available at the time of publication. The Digital Equity Act states that access to a broadband connection and digital literacy have become increasingly necessary for individuals to participate in society, the economy, and civic institutions; access health care and essential services; obtain education; and build careers. The act cites high societal and economic costs of digital exclusion, which decreases an individuals opportunity for economic success, educational achievement, positive health outcomes, social inclusion, and civic engagement. Additionally, among other observations, the act asserts that digital exclusion exacerbates wealth and income gaps, and that reducing digital exclusion will require additional, ongoing investment and research efforts.