Tribal Connect Act of 2022

Tribal Connect Act of 2022

This bill expands tribal access to the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support (E-rate) program, which provides discounted broadband internet access and telecommunications services to certain schools and libraries. It also establishes a pilot program to provide broadband internet access service to essential community-serving institutions (e.g., community centers) located on tribal land.

Bill 117 hr 9343, also known as the Tribal Connect Act of 2022, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of improving access to broadband internet in tribal communities. The bill recognizes the importance of internet connectivity in today's society and seeks to address the digital divide that exists in many tribal areas.

The Tribal Connect Act of 2022 proposes several key initiatives to expand broadband access in tribal communities. One of the main provisions of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to fund broadband infrastructure projects in tribal lands. These grants would be awarded to tribal governments, tribal organizations, and other eligible entities to support the deployment of broadband networks in underserved areas.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to streamline the process for obtaining rights-of-way on tribal lands for broadband infrastructure projects. This would help expedite the deployment of broadband networks in tribal communities and ensure that they have access to high-speed internet services. Furthermore, the Tribal Connect Act of 2022 includes measures to promote digital literacy and adoption in tribal communities. The bill calls for the development of programs to educate tribal residents on the benefits of broadband internet and provide training on how to use digital technologies effectively. Overall, the Tribal Connect Act of 2022 aims to bridge the digital divide in tribal communities by expanding access to broadband internet and promoting digital literacy. By investing in broadband infrastructure and supporting digital education initiatives, the bill seeks to empower tribal communities and improve their access to the opportunities and resources available online.