Maine is losing $35 million in federal money to boost digital access and affordable devices for mostly rural and low-income residents.

The Maine Connectivity Authority announced the funding cut late Monday, saying it was notified of the cuts to three grant programs Friday.

The move comes after President Trump announced the termination of the funding source, the Digital Equity Act of 2021, calling it “racist” and “unconstitutional.”

“No more woke handouts based on race,” the President posted Thursday on Truth Social. “The Digital Equity Program is a RACIST and ILLEGAL $2.5 BILLION DOLLAR GIVEAWAY.”

The Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) says the funding cut will disproportionately impact older, rural residents, small businesses, veterans, low-income households, and students. “Programs funded through the awards ensure that all people have the skills and technology necessary to safely participate in an increasingly digital society,” said the agency in a statement.

MCA says it’s exploring legal options to respond to the grant termination.

The three program impacted by the funding loss are listed below:

  • $10M was awarded to the MCA to fund the Digital Opportunity Networks grant program (with awards planned for announcement next month), a statewide device donation and refurbishment campaign, and an educational platform for technical assistance.

  • $13.8M was awarded to the National Digital Equity Center (NDEC) to provide digital skills training, technical support, telehealth access, and affordable device programs. NDEC was partnering with 19 organizations, including the Maine State Library, Maine Community College System, Maine Adult Education Association, and Medical Care Development.

  • $11M was awarded to The Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG) to provide STEM education, digital services for municipal governments, device programs, digital skills education, and business support programs. GPCOG was partnering with 13 Regional and Wabanaki Broadband Partners, including economic and community organizations and councils in all 16 Maine counties.



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