NDIA Sues Federal Government to Restore Digital Equity Act Grant Funding
NDIA Challenges Termination of Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program
The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), represented by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for Washington, D.C., seeking the reinstatement of the Digital Equity Act Competitive Grant Program, part of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The program was designed to fund local initiatives expanding broadband access and digital skills training.
Grant Funding and Digital Navigator+ Program Goals
NDIA was awarded $25.7 million in competitive grant funds to implement the Digital Navigator+ (DN+) Program, aiming to expand 13 local digital navigator programs across 11 states and assist approximately 30,000 individuals. The program was also set to distribute 6,500 wireless internet accounts and devices, providing practical connectivity solutions in underserved communities.
Legal Arguments and Program Impact
The lawsuit argues that the federal termination of the program violates the Constitution’s separation of powers. NDIA states that the program was explicitly authorized by Congress to support eight “covered populations,” including rural residents, low-income households, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. NDIA Executive Director Angela Siefer said, “NDIA is taking the extraordinary step of suing the federal government for the 30,000 people who were counting on our Digital Navigator+ program to help guide them through submitting job applications, accessing telehealth, attending classes, and staying safe online.”
Next Steps and Broader Implications for Digital Inclusion
The court will review NDIA’s complaint and determine whether the program’s termination violated federal law. The outcome could have significant implications for state and local digital equity initiatives, especially programs dependent on federal funding to expand broadband access and digital inclusion services.