High-Speed Internet in Montana

Montana

High-speed internet, also known as broadband internet, is an important resource for work, education and efficient communication. Access to the internet is a human right according to the United Nations, citing the internet’s importance for social and economic development. Researchers have also recently identified access to high-speed internet as a social determinant of health. It was especially crucial during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, as many employers and educators transitioned to remote work and learning. Having high-speed internet is also vital for receiving health care via telehealth.

Despite its necessity, there are barriers to high-speed internet access, including cost and insufficient infrastructure. Lack of access to high-speed internet can restrict access to basic government services, educational and economic opportunities, accessible health care through telemedicine and avenues for social connectedness.

The prevalence of high-speed internet is higher among:

• Asian, multiracial and white households compared with American Indian/Alaska Native and Black households.
• Those with a college degree compared with those with a high school education or less.
• Those with an annual household income of $50,000 or more compared with those with incomes less than $30,000.
• Those living in urban areas compared with those living in rural areas.

Lack of access to education and telehealth services caused by the lack of high-speed internet disproportionately affected rural communities and racial/ethnic minority populations.

The biggest barriers to accessing high-speed internet at home are cost and lack of digital skills. State policies and strategies that improve broadband internet access include:

• Providing financing and incentives for organizations and companies working to improve access to high-speed internet services.
• Improving access to publicly owned infrastructure that supports the implementation of high-speed internet services.

Households eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program can receive discounted or no-cost high-speed internet. Individuals can see the program's eligibility requirements and apply online.

The ACCESS BROADBAND dashboard is a useful tool to understand the economic effects of broadband infrastructure expansion. This interactive tool includes a map that displays access measures and economic characteristics that can be influenced with greater broadband access. The map provides income, home value, educational attainment and GDP statistics so users can grasp the economic context of the areas in which broadband investment efforts occur. 

Healthy People 2030 has a goal to increase the proportion of adults with broadband internet access.

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