Hawaii to create statewide broadband office
Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, who’s acting as governor while Gov. Josh Green is out of state, signed a bill Monday that creates a centralized broadband office and is designed to expand access to the internet and digital literacy resources.
The law, which takes effect July 1, establishes the Hawaii State Broadband Office within the state’s Department of Accounting and General Services. It will replace the Hawaii Broadband and Digital Equity Office housed in the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.
The new office is tasked with developing and implementing strategies to “aggressively” increase broadband affordability, and administering federal and state grant programs in support of broadband infrastructure, innovation and the digital economy. It also directs the governor to appoint a “strategic broadband coordinator” to oversee the office.
The law also calls for a new broadband revolving fund, and allocates an initial $200,000. The fund can be used to support broadband projects and fund positions that provide technical assistance to the public.
The new law funds six new “digital navigator” positions, to be based at public libraries. The navigator program, which was initially built out during a 2023 pilot project, is charged with helping residents use digital devices, connecting to the internet and accessing online services such as telehealth appointments, filling out job applications or applying for government programs.
The law makes Hawaii the latest state to establish a dedicated broadband program and office with authorities prescribed in law. According to a 2024 tally by the National Conference of State Legislatures, at least 35 states had broadband offices focused on establishing a statewide broadband frameworks and administering federal and state grant dollars.
