Faster Rural Internet: ReConnect Program Standards and Funding Streamlined.
This Act significantly improves the ReConnect program, which funds broadband network construction in rural areas. It mandates much higher speed standards (100/20 Mbps instead of 25/3 Mbps) for new projects, ensuring faster and more reliable internet access for rural residents. The legislation also simplifies the application process and increases funding flexibility to accelerate infrastructure deployment.
Key points
Required broadband speeds for new ReConnect funded projects are increased to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload.
The application process for grants and loans is simplified, reducing required data and allowing alternative financial documentation to speed up deployment.
A transparent process is established for challenging whether a specific rural area truly lacks adequate broadband service.
Expired
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