Rural Wireless Access Act of 2017

Bill 115 s 1621, also known as the Rural Wireless Access Act of 2017, aims to improve access to wireless broadband services in rural areas of the United States. The bill recognizes that many rural communities lack access to reliable and high-speed internet services, which can hinder economic development and educational opportunities.

The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Establishing a grant program to support the deployment of wireless broadband infrastructure in rural areas. This program would provide funding to eligible entities, such as telecommunications companies and local governments, to expand wireless coverage in underserved areas. 2. Directing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct a study on the availability and quality of wireless broadband services in rural areas. The study would assess the current state of wireless infrastructure and identify areas in need of improvement. 3. Encouraging collaboration between federal, state, and local governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, to address the challenges of expanding wireless access in rural communities. The bill emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships in bridging the digital divide. Overall, the Rural Wireless Access Act of 2017 seeks to address the digital divide in rural America by promoting the expansion of wireless broadband services. By improving access to high-speed internet, the bill aims to enhance economic opportunities, educational resources, and quality of life for residents in rural communities.