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Task force highlights adoption gaps: device ownership and cost burdens remain
Summary
Broadband office staff presented data showing 93.1% subscription where service is available, but device ownership gaps (3% of households with access lack a computing device) and a cost burden affecting about 30–31% of locations (718,453 locations) persist; rural prices are ~13% higher and competition lowers prices.
Broadband office staff presented adoption and affordability findings to the task force, stressing that physical access to service does not equate to meaningful connectivity. "Most Wisconsin households choose to purchase an available internet plan — 93.1% subscribe and 6.9% do not," a presenter said.
The presentation highlighted device ownership as an overlooked barrier: an estimated 3% of households with Internet availability at home still do not own a computing device, with county rates ranging from about 1.4% in some areas to as high as 18% in Menominee County. Staff also reported an estimated 30–31% of locations (718,453 locations cited) experiencing a cost burden, meaning the available 100x20 service exceeds an affordability threshold relative to household income.
Data showed a rural–urban price gap (rural 100x20 plans about 13% higher) and that competition reduces prices: locations with five or more providers saw roughly a 17% lower price than single-provider locations. Task force members recommended continuing digital navigation, device and affordability programs alongside infrastructure investments.
