City Bar Joins Advocates in Albany to Push for Internet Access in Homeless Shelters

Take action: City Bar members are encouraged to contact the Governor and their state legislators in support of internet access for individuals living in temporary housing.
👉 Send a message here!

On Wednesday, March 11, members of the New York City Bar Association’s Policy Department joined advocates in Albany for a Wifi4Homeless lobby day, organized in partnership with VOCAL-NY, Coalition for the Homeless, and the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU).

Advocates gathered at the State Capitol to highlight the urgent need to ensure that individuals and families living in temporary housing have reliable and secure internet access. The day included a rally and meetings with state legislators, where advocates urged policymakers to include funding and clear policy requirements for internet access in temporary housing in the FY 2027 New York State budget.

Why Internet Access in Temporary Housing Matters

Access to the internet is now essential to daily life. Individuals living in temporary housing rely on connectivity to:

• Apply for jobs
• Participate in remote learning and school assignments
• Access telehealth and mental health services
• Communicate with caseworkers and service providers
• Apply for and manage public benefits
• Meet court and immigration obligations

Despite these needs, many homeless shelters across New York State still lack reliable WiFi access for residents.

As New York advances major investments in digital infrastructure and digital equity, advocates are urging policymakers to ensure that homeless New Yorkers are not left out of statewide efforts to close the digital divide.

City Bar Reissues Report Supporting Internet Access Legislation

In connection with this advocacy effort, the City Bar has newly reissued its committee report supporting legislation that would require internet access for individuals residing in temporary housing statewide.

The report explains why internet access is critical for residents’ ability to secure employment, access services, and pursue long-term stability. It also emphasizes the importance of establishing clear statewide standards for connectivity and appropriate safeguards to protect residents’ privacy and sensitive information.

Read the newly reissued City Bar report here.

Learn More About the #wifi4homeless Campaign

The City Bar is working with partners to ensure that New York’s digital equity efforts include people living in temporary housing. More information about the campaign and related advocacy efforts is available on the City Bar’s Wifi4Homeless campaign hub.

Take Action

City Bar members can help ensure that internet access in homeless shelters is included in New York’s policy and budget priorities.

👉 Contact the Governor and your legislators through our action alert.

Expanding internet access in temporary housing is a critical step toward closing the digital divide and ensuring that all New Yorkers have the tools they need to pursue opportunity, stability, and access to essential services.