Bipartisan Capito bill would grow broadband availability in rural areas

Resources would be made available to improve broadband internet networks in rural areas under bipartisan legislation that U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced on Wednesday.

The Broadband Connections for Rural Opportunities Program Act, S.3408, introduced by Capito and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), would establish a new program that combines grants and loans to help finance broadband infrastructure projects in rural and tribal areas.

“Reliable broadband access has changed how we work, socialize, and share information,” Capito said. “As West Virginia looks to grow and diversify its economy, rural Internet access will be an essential part of the transition. Yet, for all of the benefits broadband offers, a lack of connectivity presents just as many challenges. The Broadband Connections for Rural Opportunities Program Act will create new opportunities for communities looking to close the gap between those who have high-speed, high-quality broadband and the many rural Americans who don’t.”

Thirty-four million Americans do not have access to high-speed broadband internet access, according to the FCC, including approximately 40 percent of populations in rural and tribal areas.

“Reliable, fast internet access isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity in the 21st century economy,” Gillibrand said. “Lack of affordable broadband service cuts off families and businesses from critical services. The Broadband Connections for Rural Opportunities Program Act would give our rural communities access to the resources they need to get online and stay competitive in our digital economy. I was proud to work with Sen. Capito on this legislation, and I look forward to seeing it pass the Senate and ultimately become law.”

Under the legislation, federal grants could be used to cover up to 50 percent of a broadband project’s cost, and up to 75 percent of costs in remote, high-need areas.

The measure would also provide $50 million per fiscal year to support private sector broadband providers, state and local governments, and Indian tribes or tribal governments in expanding broadband internet access in under-served areas.