Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), ranking member and chairman, respectively, of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) reintroduced the Rural Internet Improvement Act. The legislation would merge USDA’s Rural e-Connectivity Pilot Program (ReConnect) with USDA’s traditional broadband loan and grant program.
Supporters say it would bolster USDA Rural Development broadband programs and ensure their funding is being targeted to rural areas that need it the most. For example, it would limit ReConnect funding to areas where at least 90 percent of households lack access to broadband.
“Expanding access to broadband services and connectivity in rural areas across South Dakota is a must,” said Thune. “Access to these broadband services is typically determined by where you live, which often leaves rural communities in a less advantageous position than their urban counterparts. Our bipartisan legislation would help bridge the digital divide by improving USDA’s ReConnect Program to ensure its funding goes to truly unserved areas.”
“The ReConnect program is critical for rural communities across the country, helping families connect to critical opportunities online while enabling farms and businesses to access new technologies,” said Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation will make key improvements to this program, allowing for a more convenient application process and more efficient deployment. As co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, I’ll keep fighting to ensure all Americans can access the high-speed internet they need.”
The measure is supported by NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, NTCA – the Rural Broadband Association, USTelecom – The Broadband Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the American Seed Trade Association, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
The Rural Internet Improvement Act would:
- Enhance the participation of all types of broadband providers in the ReConnect Program by removing unnecessary barriers;
- Increase transparency by improving the challenge process in the ReConnect Program;
- Improve the coordination between USDA and the FCC on broadband programs; and,
- Require USDA to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the FCC and NTIA to facilitate outreach to rural residents and businesses of available federal programs that promote broadband access, affordability, and inclusion.
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