Broadband Expansion: Grants for Middle Mile Infrastructure in Underserved Areas
This act establishes a grant program to fund the construction and improvement of middle mile broadband infrastructure, which is crucial for connecting unserved and underserved areas to the internet backbone. The goal is to reduce the cost of bringing high-speed internet to homes and public institutions, thereby enhancing broadband access and reliability nationwide.
Key points
Grants for building internet infrastructure that links local networks to the main internet backbone, aiming to accelerate high-speed internet access in underserved regions.
Priority for projects that leverage existing infrastructure and those connecting schools, libraries, and healthcare providers to high-speed internet.
Requirement for new infrastructure to support download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 20 Mbps, with scalability for future advancements.
Ensuring internet providers can use the new infrastructure on fair and non-discriminatory terms, promoting competition and potentially lower prices for consumers.
Special provisions and flexibility for Tribal governments to facilitate access to grants and infrastructure development on Tribal lands.
Expired
Citizen Poll