SHLB Coalition

SHLB invited Brian Allenby, Senior Director of Programs at the Maine Connectivity Authority?(MCA), to discuss Maine’s Working Internet ASAP Program. This short-term option tackles broadband gaps in the state's hardest-to-reach areas while waiting for long-term infrastructure solutions. With $250M in federal and community investment, MCA has already served 86,000 locations, with 26,000 remaining to connect. Of those remaining locations, 9,000 have no internet connection or technology. They are in the most remote areas, making digital inclusion a critical need. The?Working Internet?ASAP Program is bridging the gap through: ? Low Earth Orbit Satellite (LEO) Solutions – Starlink selected as the provider ??Enrollment & Customer Support –?25% of those signing up utilized the free phone enrollment system ? Subsidies?& Installation?– Reducing equipment costs ($500-$600)?with 68% opting for free professional installation ? Digital Inclusion – Providing skills training and support through digital navigators?and regional partners Why it matters: ?? Many rural Mainers have never had internet access, making digital literacy and inclusion essential. ?? Maine uses a multi-channel outreach strategy, including direct mail, radio,?and local and regional partners, to reach disconnected households. ?? This program is a stepping stone—bridging the gap while the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program works on long-term infrastructure. The ASAP Program ensures that even the most remote communities have a pathway to connectivity by meeting people where they are. Learn more:?https://lnkd.in/eiiixQDv

?? Webinar Today: The Future of E-Rate Hotspot Funding Last July, the FCC made a game-changing decision: allowing schools and libraries to use E-Rate funding for hotspots, keeping students, educators, and library patrons connected at home. Now, Congress is considering legislation to reverse it. With 800+ schools and libraries preparing to apply for funding in 2025, this decision could have a massive impact on digital equity. Some lawmakers argue the program exceeds statutory limits—others see it as essential. Join us for a crucial conversation on: ? Congressional efforts to block E-Rate hotspot funding ? How hotspots bridge the digital divide in real communities ? The policy debate—and what’s at stake for schools, libraries, and families Featuring expert panelists Katherine (Jill) Hobson, Tammy Blackwell, Jeffery Herbel, and Ben Weintraub, with John Windhausen Jr. & Kristen Corra from SHLB moderating. ??? Today, February 26 | ? 1 PM ET Register now: https://lnkd.in/dwJ7psf4 Don’t miss this important discussion!

I’m honored to soon step into the role of Executive Director at the SHLB Coalition, continuing our mission to expand broadband access for schools, libraries, and healthcare providers across the country. I want to take a moment to recognize John Windhausen Jr.'s incredible leadership over the past 16 years—his vision and dedication have built SHLB into a powerful advocate for closing the digital divide. It’s a privilege to build on his legacy. Broadband is more than just infrastructure—it’s the foundation for education, healthcare, and opportunity. As I step into this role, my priority is to listen, learn, and lead with impact. After I start on March 10, I look forward to: ? Listening to our members & partners to understand key priorities ? Building on SHLB’s advocacy successes to protect the USF ? Working with policymakers to shape sustainable, long-term broadband solutions This is a crucial moment for broadband policy, and I’m eager to collaborate with all of you to drive real impact. What do you see as the biggest broadband challenges & opportunities in 2025? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!

Sixteen years ago, I founded the SHLB Coalition with the support of the Gates Foundation. I was driven by a vision: that schools, libraries, healthcare providers, and all anchor institutions should have access to open, affordable, high-speed #broadband and that these institutions could be a gateway to connecting entire communities. What started as an idea has become a thriving national coalition shaping broadband policy and expanding connectivity across the country. Now, it’s time for the next chapter. I’m thrilled that SHLB’s board has chosen Joseph Wender as the next Executive Director. Joey brings deep policy expertise, strong relationships with key decision-makers, and a passion for digital equity. I know SHLB will continue to grow under his leadership. To everyone who has been part of this incredible coalition—thank you. It’s been an honor to work alongside you. I can’t wait to see where #SHLB goes next! ??? Watch my message and join me in welcoming Joey to SHLB!

Will Congress Block E-Rate Hotspot Funding? The FCC’s decision last July allowed schools and libraries to apply for E-Rate funding for hotspots, helping students, educators, and library patrons stay connected at home. However, Congress is now considering legislation to reverse this decision. Over 800 schools and libraries are preparing to apply for this funding in 2025—but some lawmakers claim the program exceeds statutory limits and is wasteful. Join us for a critical discussion on: ? The congressional efforts to block E-Rate hotspot funding ? Real-world examples of how hotspots support digital equity ? The policy debate—and what’s at stake for schools, libraries, and communities Featuring expert panelists Katherine (Jill) Hobson, Tammy Blackwell, Jeffery Herbel, and Ben Weintraub, with John Windhausen Jr. & Kristen Corra from SHLB as moderators. Don’t miss this important conversation on: ?Date: February 26, 2025 Time: 1 PM Eastern Register now: https://lnkd.in/dwJ7psf4

Policy changes could shake up broadband for schools, libraries & healthcare. Here’s what's happening: ?? E-Rate & Social Media – A new Senate bill could make schools ineligible for E-Rate unless they block social media on school networks. ?? Hotspot Lending at Risk – A proposed bill would reverse the FCC’s decision to allow schools & libraries to offer discounted Wi-Fi hotspots to students & patrons. ?? Universal Service Fund (USF) in Limbo – Draft legislation could change how the USF is funded, impacting broadband affordability. ?? Spectrum Policy Debate – Lawmakers are deciding how to allocate more spectrum—SHLB supports expanding unlicensed & shared spectrum for better broadband access. These decisions could help or hurt anchor institutions’ ability to serve their communities. ?? Read SHLB’s full blog post: https://lnkd.in/eTMhVerY Kristen Corra wants to know: What’s your take? How could these changes impact your community? Drop your thoughts below! ??

After 16 years of visionary leadership, John Windhausen Jr. is stepping down as SHLB’s Executive Director. Under his guidance, SHLB has grown into a national force for digital opportunity, advocating for policies that expand broadband access for schools, libraries, and healthcare providers. We are excited to welcome Joseph Wender as SHLB’s new Executive Director! Joey brings deep expertise in broadband policy & funding, having led critical national infrastructure investments as Director of the Capital Projects Fund at the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Joey starts with SHLB on March 10. ?? Read more about this transition in our official announcement: https://lnkd.in/eQt4petY Join us in thanking John for his incredible contributions and welcoming Joey to SHLB!

Several bills in Congress could shape the future of broadband for anchor institutions like schools, libraries, and healthcare providers. Key issues to watch: ?? Eyes on the Board Act – Ties E-rate funding to school social media restrictions. SHLB advocates for local decision-making. ?? Hotspot Lending – Congress may overturn the FCC’s decision allowing schools & libraries to lend discounted Wi-Fi hotspots. Join SHLB’s webinar on Feb. 26 to learn more: https://lnkd.in/eiRtGcXs ?? USF Funding – Proposed changes could threaten the stability of E-Rate and other broadband programs. SHLB is working with Congress on a sustainable solution, and we are hosting a fly-in at the Capitol in April to defend this program. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eVQ5tPcV ?? Spectrum Policy – SHLB is pushing for balanced legislation that includes unlicensed & shared spectrum to expand community connectivity. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eTMhVerY

We’re excited to share SHLB’s 2025 Policy Platform—our vision for advancing broadband policies that connect communities and strengthen anchor institutions nationwide. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed their insights during the drafting process! Your input helps us champion policies that ensure schools, libraries, health centers, and other community institutions have the broadband they need. ?? Read the full 2025 Policy Platform here: https://lnkd.in/egz-kAS5