Loebsack Applauds House Passage of Funding for Rural Broadband Expansion

Press Release

Congressman Dave Loebsack today applauded the House passage of $1.025 billion to expand broadband access in rural communities. These funds were contained in an Appropriations "mini-bus" that included funding for various federal agencies, such as the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Development program. Loebsack has long fought to secure funding to increase access to highspeed broadband for those living and working in unserved areas.

"The need for highspeed broadband access has not been more apparent, whether it is for work, school, entertainment or telemedicine. It should not matter where you live, in the city, on a farm or in a rural community, everyone needs to have access to high-speed broadband. Unfortunately, that is not the case," said Loebsack. "This investment will help provide access to those living and working in rural areas. I am pleased the House has passed this important legislation. Now the Senate must now follow suit and invest in this needed infrastructure."

Specifically, this bill invests over $1.025 billion for the expansion of broadband service to ensure rural communities have access to digital tools necessary to improve health, educational and economic outcomes. This funding includes $990 million for the USDA's Broadband ReConnect program.

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