Schools Health And Libraries Broadband Coalition

Membership - The SHLB Coalition works with a diverse group of organizations from across the broadband ecosystem. SHLB members work together to identify and shape broadband policies that recognize and strengthen the vital role of anchors in making broadband accessible to all Americans. In 2024, SHLB totaled 320+ members and reflected a diversity of anchor institutions, broadband providers, consultants, and other public interest organizations. The Coalition is based in almost all US states, except Mississippi and North Dakota.

Policy & Advocacy - In 2024, SHLB played a leading role in shaping broadband policy and defending anchor institutions' access to critical connectivity programs. The coalition led the charge to expand the E-Rate program to support Wi-Fi hotspots and address the Homework Gap, while also advocating for a cybersecurity pilot program to protect school and library networks. SHLB filed legal briefs defending E-Rate in key court cases and urged the FCC to improve broadband access in multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and embrace dark fiber solutions. Additionally, SHLB worked to advance spectrum sharing policies and opposed commercial proposals that would limit public-interest access to the CBRS band. Through regulatory filings, coalition-building, and legal advocacy, SHLB ensured that schools, libraries, and health providers remained at the center of national broadband discussions.