1. How does the state of Arizona address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families?

The state of Arizona offers various programs and initiatives to address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families. These include:

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This is a federal program that provides a discount on phone or internet services for eligible low-income households. In Arizona, this program is administered by the Arizona Corporation Commission.

2. Arizona Community Action Agencies: These agencies offer various assistance programs such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Weatherization Assistance Program, which can help low-income families reduce their energy bills, including internet costs.

3. ConnectALL: This is a state-funded program that provides discounted broadband services to qualifying low-income households in Arizona.

4. Arizona Broadband for Education Initiative: This initiative provides discounts on broadband services to K-12 schools and community colleges to support distance learning for students from low-income families.

5. Telecommunications Income-qualified Discount: This is a program offered by some telecommunication companies in Arizona, such as Cox and CenturyLink, which offers discounted rates for internet and phone services to eligible low-income households.

6. Digital Literacy Training Programs: To help low-income families make the most of their internet service, Arizona also offers digital literacy training programs through its community colleges and libraries.

Overall, the state of Arizona recognizes the importance of affordable internet access for low-income families and continues to strive towards making it more accessible through these initiatives and partnerships with private organizations.

2. What government programs are available in Arizona to ensure affordable internet access for underserved communities?

There are several government programs available in Arizona to ensure affordable internet access for underserved communities. These include:

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This is a federal program that provides a discount on monthly phone or internet service for eligible low-income households. In Arizona, this program is administered by the Arizona Corporation Commission.

2. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP provides assistance with energy bills and also offers discounts on internet service for low-income households in Arizona.

3. ConnectHome: This program, launched by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), aims to provide affordable high-speed broadband access, computer literacy training, and digital literacy resources to residents living in HUD-assisted housing units.

4. Internet Essentials: Offered by Comcast, this program provides low-cost internet service, as well as discounted computers and free digital literacy training, to eligible low-income families.

5. Access from AT&T: This program provides low-cost internet service to qualified households in Arizona through AT&T’s fixed wireline broadband network.

6. Tribal Lifeline Program: This is a variant of the Lifeline Assistance Program that specifically targets Native American communities living on tribal lands.

7. School2Home Initiative: This initiative, launched by the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF), aims to bridge the digital divide for students attending low-performing middle schools in California and is expanding into Arizona schools.

8. Digital Literacy Grants: The state of Arizona offers grants to nonprofit organizations that provide digital literacy training and resources to underserved communities.

9. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Broadband Grant Program: This program provides grants to minority-owned businesses for projects that promote economic development through broadband adoption and utilization.

3. In what ways is the government of Arizona working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents?

There are several ways in which the government of Arizona is working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents:

1. Expanding broadband infrastructure: The Arizona Department of Administration’s Broadband Office is working to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved and rural areas of the state, providing better access to high-speed internet.

2. Digital literacy programs: The state has implemented various digital literacy programs that aim to educate residents on how to use the internet effectively, including skills such as online banking, job searching, and using online resources for education.

3. Lifeline Assistance Program: Arizona participates in the federal Lifeline Assistance Program, which provides low-income households with a discount on monthly telephone or broadband service bills.

4. Broadband tax credit: Arizona offers a tax incentive for companies that invest in expanding broadband infrastructure in underserved areas of the state.

5. Public-private partnerships: The state has formed partnerships between government agencies and private companies to expand broadband access in rural communities.

6. Promoting affordable options: The Governor’s Office of Education Innovation is working to identify and promote affordable internet options for low-income families statewide.

7. Adoption assistance programs: Some local governments in Arizona offer financial assistance or discounted rates for low-income families looking to adopt high-speed internet services.

8. Rural Broadband Initiative: Through this initiative, the state is working with private sector partners to provide broadband services in underserved rural communities across Arizona.

9. Affordable housing development programs: The state encourages affordable housing developers to consider including affordable broadband options as part of their developments, which can increase access for low-income individuals and families.

10. Connecting schools and libraries: Through initiatives like ConnectED AZ, the state is working towards connecting all schools and libraries with high-speed internet, promoting digital literacy and improving educational opportunities for students.

4. What incentives or initiatives has Arizona implemented to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans?

1. Arizona Broadband Tax Credit Program: This program provides a tax credit for ISPs that invest in broadband infrastructure and offer affordable internet plans in underserved areas of Arizona.

2. Universal Service Fund: The Arizona Corporation Commission has established a Universal Service Fund to help bridge the digital divide by providing subsidies to ISPs that offer affordable internet plans to low-income households.

3. Broadband Grants: The state of Arizona offers grants to ISPs to expand their broadband networks into rural and underserved areas, with the condition that they offer affordable internet plans to residents in those areas.

4. Public-Private Partnerships: The state government has partnered with private companies to develop initiatives that provide incentives for ISPs to offer affordable internet plans in rural and underserved areas.

5. Broadband Standards: Arizona has established minimum standards for broadband speeds, which encourages ISPs to improve their infrastructure and offer more affordable plans to meet these standards.

6. Digital Inclusion Coordinator: The state has appointed a Digital Inclusion Coordinator who works with ISPs, community organizations, and local governments to promote digital literacy and increase access to affordable internet services.

7. ConnectED Initiative: Through this national initiative, Arizona is working with schools and libraries to improve broadband connectivity and bring more affordable internet options for students and educators.

8. State Broadband Plan: Arizona has adopted a Statewide Broadband Plan, which includes strategies for increasing broadband availability and affordability throughout the state.

9. Streamlined Permitting Processes: The state has streamlined permitting processes for broadband infrastructure development, making it easier for ISPs to build or upgrade their networks and offer more affordable plans.

10. Online Resource Portal: Arizona’s Department of Administration created an online resource portal called “Arizona Connected” which provides information on available broadband providers and low-cost internet options for residents.

5. Is there a specific agency or department in Arizona responsible for overseeing internet affordability programs?

Yes, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) is a regulatory agency responsible for overseeing telecommunications and utilities in the state of Arizona. They have programs in place to address internet affordability and promote access to broadband services for low-income households. The ACC also works with various government agencies and non-profit organizations to implement these programs and ensure that they are effective in providing affordable internet options for eligible individuals and families.

6. How does Arizona measure and track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents?

Arizona tracks progress towards achieving widespread and affordable internet access for its residents through various methods and metrics, including:

1. Broadband Coverage Maps: The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) performs mapping of broadband coverage in the state to determine which areas lack sufficient coverage and may qualify for funding under state programs.

2. Digital Inclusion Index: The ACC also developed the Digital Inclusion Index, which measures the accessibility and adoption of broadband services across the state. It takes into account various factors such as household income, education level, and age to identify areas where digital resources may be limited.

3. Broadband Infrastructure Deployment Grants: The State of Arizona provides grants through the Arizona Commerce Authority to support broadband infrastructure deployment in underserved and unserved areas.

4. National Broadband Map: Arizona is also included in the National Broadband Map, a tool developed by the U.S. Department of Commerce that tracks broadband availability across all states.

5. Internet Service Provider (ISP) Reporting: ISPs are required to report their coverage data to the FCC twice a year, which is used to determine where service is available and where it may need improvement.

6. Speed Test Data: The Arizona Rural Broadband Development Stakeholder Advisory Group gathers information from speed tests conducted by residents to determine actual internet speeds in different parts of the state.

7. Surveys and Reports: Various organizations and agencies conduct surveys and publish reports on internet usage and access in Arizona, such as ConnectArizona’s “Arizona Internet Barometer” report.

Overall, these measures help track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for residents in Arizona by identifying gaps in coverage, determining funding needs for expansion projects, and monitoring changes in internet availability over time.

7. Are there any partnerships between government and private companies in Arizona aimed at lowering the cost of internet service?

There are several partnerships between government entities and private companies in Arizona aimed at lowering the cost of internet service. Some examples include:

1. The Arizona Broadband for Education Initiative, a partnership between the state government, local school districts, and internet service providers (ISPs) to provide affordable high-speed internet access to students from low-income families.

2. The Connect Arizona program, a collaboration between the Arizona Department of Education and various ISPs to offer discounted broadband services to eligible schools and libraries.

3. The Arizona Telemedicine Program, which partners with ISPs to connect rural healthcare facilities with high-speed internet access at reduced rates.

4. The Arizona Commerce Authority’s AZVentures initiative, which works with ISPs to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas of the state and promote competitive pricing for broadband services.

5. The Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family’s Arizona Partnership for Children & Families program, which partners with ISPs to provide low-cost internet services and devices to qualifying low-income families.

6. Municipal broadband projects such as Cox Communications’ Connect2Compete program, which offers discounted internet services for low-income households in Phoenix and Tucson.

7. Partnerships between local governments and ISPs, such as the city of Flagstaff’s partnership with Choice NTUA Wireless to provide affordable wireless broadband options for residents.

These are just a few examples of collaborations between government entities and private companies in Arizona that aim to lower the cost of internet service for residents.

8. Does Arizona provide subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs?

Yes, Arizona has several programs in place to provide subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs:

1. Access from AT&T: This program offers discounted internet access for eligible low-income households for $10 per month, with the option to purchase a computer for $150. To be eligible, households must have at least one member who participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

2. Lifeline Program: This federal program provides a discount of up to $9.25 per month on internet service for eligible low-income households. To be eligible, household income must be at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or have a household member that participates in certain government assistance programs.

3. Spectrum Internet Assist: This program provides high-speed internet service for $14.99 per month for eligible low-income households with students who participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) or are enrolled in a free or reduced-cost school breakfast and lunch program.

4. Cox Connect2Compete: This program offers discounted internet service for $9.95 per month for qualifying low-income families with children in kindergarten through grade 12 who receive government assistance.

5. Arizona Lifeline Discount Telephone Service: This state-funded program offers a discount of up to $17 per month on landline telephone service, which can also be applied towards internet service if offered by the provider.

6. Tribal Link-Up Program: For eligible tribal members residing on tribal lands, this state-federal program offers a one-time discount of up to $100 off installation fees related to receiving telephone or broadband services.

7. Indian Telecommunications Initiative: This program provides grants and loans to Native American tribes and individuals living on reservations to improve access to telecommunications services, including broadband internet access.

For more information and eligibility requirements for these programs, you can visit the Arizona Corporation Commission website or contact your local internet service provider.

9. Are there any state-level regulations or policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services in Arizona?

There are currently no state-level regulations or policies in place in Arizona specifically to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services. However, there are some general consumer protection laws that may apply to internet services.

The Arizona Corporation Commission is responsible for regulating public utilities in the state, including telecommunications companies. They have the authority to set rates and regulate tariffs for services provided by these utilities. However, this does not necessarily apply to private ISPs.

Additionally, Arizona has a Consumer Protection Act that prohibits unfair business practices and false advertising. This law could potentially be used to challenge excessive pricing by ISPs if it can be shown that the pricing is deceptive or unfair. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office is responsible for enforcing this law.

In 2018, Arizona passed HB2126 which requires ISPs that receive state funding for broadband projects to offer affordable broadband plans for low-income households. This legislation does not directly address excessive pricing but aims to make internet services more accessible for lower-income individuals and families.

Overall, while there are no specific regulations or policies in place addressing excessive pricing by ISPs in Arizona, consumers may seek help from the relevant regulatory bodies and use existing laws to challenge such practices if necessary.

10. Can students from low-income families in Arizona access discounted or free high-speed internet through government programs?

Yes, there are several government programs in Arizona that offer discounted or free high-speed internet access for low-income families. Some of these programs include:

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program offers a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on phone or internet services for eligible low-income households.

2. ConnectAll Initiative: This program provides discounted computer equipment and low-cost internet service to eligible low-income families in Arizona, with prices starting at $10 per month.

3. Internet Essentials from Comcast: This initiative offers affordable internet access to eligible low-income families for $9.95 per month.

4. Access from AT&T: This program offers discounted internet service to eligible SNAP participants for $10 per month.

5. Cox Connect2Compete: This program provides high-speed internet access to eligible low-income families for $9.95 per month.

Eligibility requirements vary for each program, so it is recommended that students check with their school or the specific program’s website for more information on how to apply.

11. How does Arizona’s approach to promoting internet affordability differ from that of other states?

Arizona’s approach to promoting internet affordability differs from other states in several ways:

1. Increase Competition: Arizona has taken steps to encourage competition among internet service providers (ISPs) in the state. This includes passing laws that remove barriers for new ISPs to enter the market and providing tax incentives for companies that invest in broadband infrastructure.

2. State Broadband Office: In 2009, Arizona created a state broadband office with the goal of expanding access and adoption of high-speed internet throughout the state. The office serves as a central point of contact for stakeholders interested in promoting broadband development.

3. Public-Private Partnerships: Arizona has actively pursued public-private partnerships to expand broadband access in underserved areas. These partnerships involve collaboration between government agencies, community organizations, and private companies to develop and implement broadband infrastructure projects.

4. Digital Inclusion: The Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records have initiatives dedicated to promoting digital inclusion across the state. This includes programs for low-income individuals and families, as well as seniors and persons with disabilities.

5. Education Initiatives: Arizona has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable internet for students, such as providing grants for schools to purchase Wi-Fi hotspots, offering discounts on internet service for low-income families, and equipping school buses with Wi-Fi so students can access the internet during their commute.

In contrast, some other states may rely more heavily on federal funding or regulatory measures to promote internet affordability. Some may also have specific initiatives focused on expanding rural broadband access or increasing adoption rates among certain demographic groups.

12. Has the government ofArizona launched any innovative initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents?

Yes, the government of Arizona has launched various initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents. These initiatives include:

1. Arizona Broadband Services Program: This program was launched by the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) in partnership with the Arizona Department of Administration (ADOA) and the Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting. It offers financial assistance to internet service providers (ISPs) to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas.

2. Rural Broadband Development Grant Program: This program is administered by the ACA and provides grants to ISPs, cooperatives, and local governments to expand broadband access in rural areas.

3. Digital Literacy Program: The ACA also offers digital literacy training programs for residents, businesses, and community organizations to improve digital skills and increase awareness about the benefits of high-speed broadband.

4. Broadband Accelerator Program: Launched by the Arizona Telecommunications & Information Council (ATIC), this program aims to increase collaboration between state agencies, local governments, and private partners to accelerate broadband deployment in underserved areas.

5. Broadband Mapping Initiative: The Arizona State Land Department has launched a mapping initiative in partnership with Connected Nation to identify unserved and underserved areas in the state and better target broadband development efforts.

6. Digital Equity Pilot Program: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ACA launched a pilot program that provides low-cost or free internet access to eligible low-income households through partnerships with ISPs.

Overall, these initiatives aim to promote competition among ISPs, reduce barriers for entry into underserved markets, and increase affordability for residents across Arizona.

13. Do rural areas in Arizona have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas do?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. In general, rural areas in Arizona tend to have less access to affordable internet services compared to urban areas. This is due to a variety of reasons such as infrastructure limitations, higher costs for providers to reach these areas, and lower population densities.

However, efforts are being made by the government and telecommunication providers to bridge this gap and increase access to affordable internet services in rural areas. For example, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established various programs such as the Connect America Fund (CAF) that provide funding for telecom companies to improve broadband infrastructure in rural areas.

Additionally, some internet service providers offer discounted plans or special programs for low-income households in both urban and rural areas. These programs often include affordable options for high-speed internet access.

In summary, while there may be generally less access to affordable internet services in rural areas of Arizona compared to urban areas, efforts are being made by various entities to address this issue and improve access for all residents.

14. What role do community organizations play in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Arizona?

Community organizations play a crucial role in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Arizona. These organizations can work to educate and raise awareness about issues related to internet access and affordability, and also advocate for policy changes at the local, state, and national levels.

Some specific ways that community organizations can advocate for more affordable internet options in Arizona include:

1. Conducting research and data collection: Community organizations can gather data on the current state of internet access and affordability within their communities. This information can then be used to identify gaps and advocate for targeted solutions.

2. Building partnerships and coalitions: By collaborating with other community organizations, advocates, and industry stakeholders, community organizations can amplify their voices and increase their impact in advocating for more affordable internet options.

3. Engaging in public education campaigns: Community organizations can use various communication channels such as social media, newsletters, forums, etc., to educate the public about the importance of affordable internet access and the barriers that prevent people from accessing it.

4. Lobbying policymakers: Community organizations can lobby lawmakers at the local, state, or national level to pass legislation or policies that promote more affordable internet options. These efforts may include attending hearings on relevant legislation, coordinating letter-writing campaigns or meeting directly with policymakers.

5. Directly engaging with internet service providers (ISPs): Community organizations can engage with ISPs to negotiate better rates or discounts for low-income individuals or underserved communities. This kind of direct engagement may also involve advocating for improved infrastructure in underserved areas.

6. Supporting digital literacy programs: Many community organizations offer digital literacy programs that provide training on how to use technology effectively. By increasing people’s digital skills, these programs help them make better use of available resources like free public Wi-Fi services and find more affordable options tailored to their needs.

Overall, community organizations serve as a critical voice for low-income individuals and underserved communities when it comes to advocating for more affordable internet options. Their efforts can contribute to reducing the digital divide and ensuring that all Arizonans have access to essential online resources and opportunities.

15. Are there any tax credits or incentives available to ISPs in exchange for offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services in Arizona?

There are no specific tax credits or incentives available to ISPs in exchange for offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services in Arizona. However, the state offers a variety of tax incentives and grants that could potentially support broadband infrastructure development, which could indirectly benefit ISPs looking to offer lower-cost services. Additionally, some local governments may offer subsidies or other incentives to encourage broadband deployment in underserved areas.

16. How transparent is the government of Arizona’s decision-making process when it comes to allocating funds towards improving internet affordability?

It is difficult to provide a comprehensive answer to this question as the transparency of decision-making processes can vary depending on the specific issue and context. However, in general, Arizona’s government makes information about budget allocations and funding decisions publicly available through various outlets, such as state agency websites, budget reports, and public meetings.

The Arizona Open Meeting Law requires all meetings of public bodies to be open to the public unless specifically exempted by law. This means that most government discussions and decisions related to budget allocation for internet affordability would be open to the public and subject to public records laws. Additionally, the Arizona State Legislature maintains a website that provides access to meeting agendas, committee reports, bill summaries, and other information related to state government spending.

However, some advocates have criticized the lack of transparency in Arizona’s decision-making process for allocating funds for internet infrastructure projects. They argue that often these decisions are made behind closed doors and with limited opportunities for public input. This may particularly affect marginalized communities who lack access or knowledge about how to participate in these decision-making processes.

Overall, while there are mechanisms in place for transparency in Arizona’s decision-making process regarding budget allocations for internet affordability, there may still be room for improvement in making these processes more accessible and inclusive of diverse perspectives.

17. What strategies has Arizona employed to promote digital equity and ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet?

The state of Arizona has employed several strategies to promote digital equity and ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet. These strategies include:

1. Broadband Investment: The Arizona Commerce Authority has invested in broadband infrastructure, especially in rural areas, through grants and partnerships with telecommunication companies.

2. Digital Inclusion: The state has launched a digital inclusion program called “Connect Arizona” which aims to provide low-income families with discounted or free internet services and devices.

3. Education Initiatives: The Arizona Department of Education has collaborated with local schools and libraries to provide students with internet access for educational purposes.

4. Broadband Mapping: The state has created a comprehensive map of broadband availability across the state to identify underserved areas and prioritize investment efforts.

5. Telehealth Services: The state has expanded telehealth services to reach residents in underserved areas, providing access to healthcare resources in remote communities.

6. Public-Private Partnerships: The state government has formed partnerships with private companies to help increase broadband availability and affordability in underserved areas.

7. Digital Literacy Training: Arizona’s Digital Literacy Alliance offers training programs for residents on how to use the internet effectively, promoting digital skills and knowledge among all demographics.

8. Tribal Broadband Grants: The state awards grants for tribal broadband projects to improve connectivity on Native American reservations, where barriers to access are particularly prevalent.

9. Wi-Fi Hotspots: To bridge the digital gap, the State Library, Archives & Public Records provides portable Wi-Fi hotspots that can be checked out from participating libraries across the state.

10. Net Neutrality Protections: In 2018, Arizona passed a net neutrality law that prohibits internet service providers from blocking or slowing down certain websites or charging extra fees for access to specific content.

18. Does the state government in Arizona work closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability?

Yes, the state government in Arizona does work closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability. There are several initiatives and programs in place that aim to increase broadband access and affordability in the state, including:

1. Arizona Broadband Strategic Plan: In 2019, the Arizona Governor’s Office launched a strategic plan that outlines the state’s goals and strategies for expanding broadband access and adoption. The plan includes collaboration with local municipalities to identify and address specific community needs.

2. ConnectHOME Initiative: This initiative by the Arizona Department of Housing aims to bridge the digital divide for low-income households by partnering with internet service providers (ISPs) to offer discounted or free internet services.

3. Digital Arizona Initiative: This collaboration between the Arizona Commerce Authority, local governments, and nonprofits works to promote digital literacy and provide access to affordable technology and internet services.

4. Community Networks Program: Through this program, established by the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), funds are allocated to local communities to develop broadband infrastructure projects that enhance access and affordability.

5. Broadband Program Office: The ACC’s Broadband Program Office serves as a centralized resource for information related to broadband development in Arizona. They also collaborate with local governments on funding and infrastructure projects aimed at improving internet affordability.

Overall, there is a strong partnership between state and local governments in implementing targeted programs for improving internet affordability in Arizona.

19. How does the state ofArizona compare to neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability?

Arizona ranks relatively low compared to its neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability. According to a report by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, as of 2019, Arizona ranked 39th in the nation for internet access and affordability, behind neighboring states such as Nevada (35th), New Mexico (36th), Utah (26th), and Colorado (22nd). This low ranking is due to factors such as high costs of service and equipment, limited broadband infrastructure in rural areas, and lack of state-level policies or initiatives aimed at promoting internet affordability for low-income households. Neighboring states like Utah, for example, have programs and initiatives specifically targeted towards providing discounted internet services for low-income individuals and families. However, Arizona does have some programs in place to address digital inclusion, such as the Arizona Broadband Initiative which aims to expand high-speed internet access statewide. Overall, there is room for improvement in Arizona’s efforts towards promoting widespread internet affordability compared to its neighboring states.

20. Are there long-term plans in place in Arizona to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents?

Yes, there are long-term plans in place in Arizona to address rising internet costs and ensure access to high-speed internet for all residents.

1. Connecting Arizona: This is a statewide initiative launched by Governor Doug Ducey with the goal of bringing high-speed internet to every community in Arizona by 2025. The plan involves partnering with private companies and local governments to expand broadband infrastructure and provide affordable internet options to underserved areas.

2. Universal Service Fund: In 2018, the Arizona Corporation Commission approved the creation of a Universal Service Fund (USF) which will provide subsidies for telecommunication companies to expand broadband services in rural areas. This fund is estimated to raise $15 million annually.

3. Broadband Strategic Plan: The State of Arizona has also developed a Broadband Strategic Plan which outlines strategies for increasing broadband access and adoption throughout the state. This plan includes recommendations such as streamlining processes for deploying broadband infrastructure, expanding digital literacy programs, and promoting public-private partnerships.

4. Digital Inclusion Alliance: The Digital Inclusion Alliance is a collaboration between government agencies, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that aims to promote digital inclusion and bridge the digital divide in Arizona. The alliance works on initiatives such as providing low-cost devices and internet services to low-income households, offering digital skills training, and advocating for policies that support universal access.

5. Partnerships with Private Companies: Several private companies have also taken initiatives to expand high-speed internet access in Arizona. For example, Cox Communications has invested over $10 billion in its network infrastructure to bring gigabit speeds to over 80% of households in Arizona.

Overall, there are multiple long-term plans and initiatives in place that aim to address rising internet costs and ensure high-speed internet access for all residents of Arizona.