U.S. Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA) and Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Community Broadband Act to improve internet and broadband access by removing roadblocks prohibiting local communities from deploying their own broadband networks.
“Today, tens of millions of Americans completely lack high-speed internet, and as we’ve seen throughout the pandemic, internet is essential to access crucial services and keep people connected,” said Eshoo. “The Community Broadband Act will bridge the digital divide and help local governments enable connectivity, increase economic growth, and create jobs by building local broadband systems.”
“Internet access is a basic necessity, yet millions of Americans aren’t getting the broadband access they need,” said Booker. “In order to empower local communities, we must expand access to high-speed, affordable internet so we can bridge the digital divide between communities across our country. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill that would allow for a more connected and equitable society and unlock new opportunities for innovation and economic growth for all.”
Twenty-one states have passed laws that either restrict or prohibit communities from investing local dollars in building their own broadband networks. These laws shield ISPs from competition. They also tie the hands of communities that want to improve broadband options or deployment to unserved areas, according to the lawmakers.
Eshoo and Booker cite a recent study from New America’s Open Technology Institute that found community-owned ISPs offer higher speed and lower prices for users than incumbent ISPs. The Community Broadband Act nullifies state laws that inhibit local governments from building their own broadband, preserving the right to self-determination for local communities.
“The Fiber Broadband Association believes that it’s a national imperative to ensure all Americans have access to high-speed, reliable broadband connectivity,” said Fiber Broadband Association President/CEO Gary Bolton. “Unfortunately, not all communities have access to experienced broadband providers and these communities must step up to ensure that no one is left behind on the wrong side of the digital divide. These critical community providers include a wide range of municipal providers, Tribes, utility co-ops, public-private partnerships, and nonprofits across the U.S.”
Other groups supporting the measure include the New America’s Open Technology Institute, Next Level Networks, Inc. and the National Association of Telecommunications Officers & Advisors, note the lawmakers.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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