On May 10, Governor Gavin Newsom released the May Revision to his proposed 2024-25 California state budget. Despite community efforts and advocacy from across the state, the Governor proposes a cut of $1.5 Billion to the crucial California Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative to expand the middle-mile network, withdrawing a commitment the state made to ensure that the most disconnected communities can have equitable access to fast, reliable, and affordable broadband.
This rollback will shut out some of the highest areas of need, including cities in Southeast Los Angeles (SELA), and continue to disproportionately impact Latino/as. Last September, SELA leaders called on Governor Newsom to deliver digital equity by providing reliable and affordable internet access to highest needs cities and communities such as SELA, where Latino/as make up 94% of the population. The California Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative would increase access to fast, reliable, widespread internet service for many communities in the state, including the SELA region. In a press conference in Sacramento, Governor Newsom said in response to the proposal, “We have to be accountable. We have to be responsible.” Governor Newsom’s call for accountability and responsibility must extend beyond budget management to ensure equity and justice. Our Latino/a, Black, and low-income communities are consistently cut out of necessary resources in an effort to balance the budget. Internet is a necessity, not a luxury, providing access to health care, education, work opportunities, and key resources.
Although the proposal by the Governor requests the legislature to authorize him to spend “up to $1.5B” in the coming two years from excess revenue that may become available, we urge the state to seek alternative solutions that do not require another delay and do not disproportionately impact our most disconnected communities. Ensuring all communities have access to fast, reliable, and affordable broadband is not just a budget issue—it is a matter of equity and a fundamental step towards a more inclusive and connected California. The Governor must see his commitment through to ensure our communities have access to resources and services. Latino/a, Black, and low-income communities cannot continue to bear the brunt of an unbalanced budget.