Digital Opportunity Legislative Day: Advocacy in Action

On February 12th, DELN and Washington Digital Equity Partners gathered in Olympia for our first Digital Opportunity Legislative Day. Advocates from across King County came together with a shared purpose: to ensure that every Washingtonian has the tools and skills needed to fully participate in our digital world.

Throughout the day, we met with legislators and their staff to discuss HB 2365, Advancing Digital Opportunity. The conversations were rooted in real experiences from the communities our member organizations serve.

In King County, home of a global tech hub, it can be difficult to imagine that many of our neighbors still lack reliable access to affordable internet, devices, or digital skills training. Yet for students trying to complete homework, seniors navigating telehealth appointments, job seekers applying online, and small businesses building digital presence, access is not guaranteed.

DELN represents more than 100 local organizations working directly with vulnerable and historically underserved communities. Our members provide low-cost internet options, free and low-cost devices, and culturally responsive digital skills programs that open doors to education, healthcare, employment, and civic participation.

Legislative Day was not simply about a bill, it was about visibility. It was about ensuring that policymakers understand that digital equity is economic development, workforce development, educational opportunity, and healthcare access all at once.

Advocacy requires courage. It requires taking time away from busy schedules, traveling to Olympia, and sharing stories that reflect both challenge and hope. We are deeply grateful to the advocates who showed up, spoke up, and represented their communities with clarity and conviction.

While HB 2365 ultimately did not pass this session, our collective efforts have a lasting impact. We strengthened relationships with legislators and staff. We elevated the voices of community-based organizations. We reinforced that digital equity remains a priority for communities across Washington State.

Policy change is rarely linear. Progress is built through persistence, partnership, and continued engagement. Every conversation moves the work forward.

DELN remains committed to advancing digital equity across King County and beyond. We will continue to advocate for coordinated systems, sustainable investments, and policies that ensure no community is left behind in an increasingly digital society.

The work continues as we move forward together.