One of the lesser publicized portions of the new $1.2 trillion federal infrastructure package just passed by Congress is targeting up to $65 billion for broadband projects across the country.
According to the language of the legislation, the funding will particularly target broadband construction and upgrading projects in rural areas and on Tribal lands and will see funding made available in the form of grants sent to the states.
“After this prolonged pandemic that has proven just how essential broadband connectivity is, this is an historic investment that will go a long way to connecting all Americans, even in the hardest-to-reach parts of our country,” Shirley Bloomfield, chief executive officer of the Rural Broadband Association, said about the legislation.
As passed by lawmakers, the bill is sending $42.4 billion to the Commerce Department and its National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which is tasked with making grants to the states.
The NTIA, notes the site Axios, will approve plans for broadband grants, making certain in the process that providers offer low cost-service options if they expect to get federal support.
Around $14.2 billion is going to the Affordable Connectivity Program under the umbrella of the Federal Communications Commission to provide broadband subsidies for eligible households.
Exactly $2 billion will fund the already-existing National Telecommunications and Information Administration Tribal Connectivity Program for the expansion of broadband access on Tribal lands.
Also included: $1 billion for the construction of what is known as “middle mile” infrastructure connecting local providers to larger internet access points.
According to a report released last year by the Federal Communications Commission, more than 18.3 million Americans continue to lack access to high-speed internet, with those living in rural or Tribal areas the most negatively impacted.
By Garry Boulard