Dear Editor:

Lack of internet access in developing countries is a serious issue for not only for the security of our country itself, but also for our own state. 

The Digital GAP needs to be passed because currently, 60 percent (or 4.2 billion people) of the world currently has no internet access. Seventy-five percent of the 4.2 billion are condensed into only 20 countries. Over 8,000 people in West Africa died in 2014 due to an outbreak of the Ebola virus due to a lack of proper communication across treatment centers. Giving these people internet access will improve the US economy as these people will be able to buy more goods, have access to medical treatments, communicate with each other virtually, and much more.

If this act passes, approximately 160 million people will be lifted out of poverty and generate $2.2 trillion in GDP. Internet access to the entire global population is vital to world peace and security, including that of our own country.