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RURAL Broadband Act of 2021

12/31/2022, 5:07 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4383

The RURAL Broadband Act of 2021, also known as Bill 117 hr 4383, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of expanding access to high-speed broadband internet in rural areas across the country. The bill recognizes the importance of reliable internet access for economic development, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life in rural communities.

Key provisions of the bill include funding for broadband infrastructure projects in underserved rural areas, grants to support broadband deployment, and incentives for internet service providers to expand their networks to reach more rural customers. The bill also seeks to improve data collection on broadband availability and speeds in rural areas, in order to better target resources and address gaps in coverage.

Supporters of the RURAL Broadband Act argue that expanding access to high-speed internet in rural areas will help bridge the digital divide and promote economic growth and innovation. Critics, however, raise concerns about the cost of the bill and the potential for government overreach in the broadband market. Overall, the RURAL Broadband Act of 2021 aims to address the challenges of rural broadband access and improve connectivity for residents in underserved areas. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress, where lawmakers are debating its merits and potential impact on rural communities.

Congressional Summary of HR 4383

Reprioritizing Unserved Rural Areas and Locations for Broadband Act of 2021 or the RURAL Broadband Act of 2021

This bill restricts the use of Rural Utilities Service grants or loans to deploy broadband infrastructure that would overbuild or otherwise duplicate existing broadband networks.

Current Status of Bill HR 4383

Bill HR 4383 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 9, 2021. Bill HR 4383 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on July 9, 2021.  Bill HR 4383's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit. as of August 11, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4383

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
4
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
4
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4383

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4383

To amend the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to provide requirements on the use of assistance for broadband deployment, and for other purposes.
RURAL Broadband Act of 2021
RURAL Broadband Act of 2021
Reprioritizing Unserved Rural Areas and Locations for Broadband Act of 2021

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