Bill funds affordable internet access and streamlines broadband network deployment
This Act aims to close the Digital Divide by allocating $7 billion in new funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), directly helping citizens afford internet service. It mandates a national strategy to synchronize federal broadband programs across multiple agencies, ensuring funds are spent efficiently, preventing duplication, and speeding up infrastructure permitting processes on federal lands.
Key points
$7 billion in new funding allocated to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), directly subsidizing internet access for eligible households.
Requires a National Strategy to coordinate 15 federal agencies to eliminate waste, fraud, and duplication in broadband funding programs.
Streamlines and speeds up the process for granting permits and rights-of-way needed to install broadband infrastructure on federal property.
Increases funding by $3.08 billion for the program replacing insecure communications equipment ("rip and replace").
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_2238
Sponsor: Sen. Wicker, Roger F. [R-MS]
Process start date: 2023-07-11