FBA Official Statement on ReConnecting Rural America Act of 2023

“The Fiber Broadband Association applauds Senators Welch and Marshall for introducing the “ReConnecting Rural America Act of 2023,” which reauthorizes the very successful Rural Utilities Service ReConnect program. Over the years, the ReConnect program has provided funding to ensure more remote communities in America have the same broadband capabilities as urban areas, connecting them largely with reliable, fiber broadband networks. But, far too many rural communities are still stranded on the wrong side of the digital divide. The legislation introduced by the Senators addresses that important concern. By reauthorizing ReConnect and requiring that projects offer a minimum service build out speed of 100 Mbps symmetrical broadband service, the legislation will ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely and most importantly that rural Americans and their communities will receive the broadband connectivity that meets their needs today and tomorrow.”

-Gary Bolton, President and CEO, Fiber Broadband Association