Digital Opportunity Foundation Act of 2026
- Bill Number
- H.R. 8936
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Science, Technology, Communications
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-05-20: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-06-29T17:30:40Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose of the Legislation This bill establishes the Foundation for Digital Opportunity as a nonprofit entity to supplement federal efforts in promoting broadband access, digital inclusion, and digital literacy. It aims to increase adoption of affordable broadband and related technologies among covered populations, while leveraging private and philanthropic funding.
Key Provisions
- Definitions: Clarifies terms such as "digital inclusion" (activities ensuring access to affordable broadband, devices, and training), "digital literacy" (skills for using technology securely), "covered populations" (groups with low broadband adoption), and others relevant to the Foundation's work.
- Establishment Process: Creates a temporary Committee for the Establishment of the Foundation within 90 days of enactment to incorporate the entity as a nonprofit under state law and appoint initial Board members. The Committee terminates after 180 days.
- Foundation Mission and Structure: The Foundation operates independently of the federal government as a tax-exempt 501(c) organization. Its Board includes ex officio nonvoting members (e.g., Secretary of Commerce, FCC Chairman) and at least 15 appointed voting members from sectors like academia, industry, nonprofits, and tribal governments.
- Activities: Authorizes grants for digital literacy projects, studies, training programs, stakeholder convenings, communications efforts, and for-profit subsidiaries (e.g., impact investment funds) to support economic development. It may also backfill Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program grants if federal appropriations fall short.
- Administration and Oversight: Requires a strategic plan within one year, biennial public reports, annual audits, evaluations by the Comptroller General every five years, and conflict-of-interest procedures. The Secretary may provide support services.
- Funding: Authorizes appropriations for the Committee in fiscal year 2027, Foundation operations in 2028, and administrative costs thereafter.
Significant Changes to Existing Law The bill introduces a new independent foundation model for digital equity initiatives, distinct from direct federal agency programs under the Digital Equity Act of 2021 or the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program. It exempts the Foundation from certain federal rules, such as the Anti-Deficiency Act and Federal Advisory Committee Act requirements, while preserving existing authorities of the NTIA, FCC, and Department of Commerce.
Potential Impacts
- Government Agencies: NTIA, FCC, and the Department of Commerce gain a partner for leveraging resources and expertise but retain no administrative control; the Foundation must ensure complementarity with federal programs.
- Citizens: Enhanced support for broadband adoption, digital skills training, and access to telehealth, education, and economic opportunities, particularly for older individuals, rural residents, and other covered populations.
- International Relations: No direct effects specified.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Covered populations and community anchor institutions.
- Minority-serving institutions, tribal governments, and rural practitioners.
- Private sector entities, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations, academia, and civil rights advocates.
- Federal agencies including the Department of Commerce, NTIA, and FCC.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications The Foundation's nonprofit status and liability protections limit federal financial exposure. Provisions for intellectual property standards, donor restrictions, and transparency aim to maintain integrity. The bill does not alter constitutional authorities or preempt existing laws but creates a hybrid public-private structure for ongoing digital opportunity efforts.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Matsui, Doris O. [D-CA-7]
Recent Actions
- 2026-05-20: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2026-05-20: Introduced in House
- 2026-05-20: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Digital Opportunity Foundation Act of 2026 — issued 2026-05-20 — PDF (33 pages)