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Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2024

9/28/2024, 8:05 AM

Summary of Bill S 275

The Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2024, also known as Bill 118 s 275, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to protect and expand access to broadband internet in rural areas across the country.

The bill includes provisions to ensure that rural communities have access to reliable and affordable broadband services. It aims to address the digital divide between urban and rural areas by providing funding for the deployment of broadband infrastructure in underserved regions.

Additionally, the Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2024 seeks to improve the quality of broadband services in rural areas by promoting competition among internet service providers. This competition is intended to drive down prices and increase the availability of high-speed internet options for residents in rural communities. Overall, this legislation is focused on bridging the gap in internet access between rural and urban areas, with the ultimate goal of promoting economic development and improving the quality of life for individuals living in rural America.

Congressional Summary of S 275

Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2023

This bill requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a process to vet applicants for certain funding that supports affordable broadband deployment in high-cost areas, including rural communities.

Specifically, the process applies to applicants seeking funding under the high-cost universal service programs that provide competitive awards for broadband deployment.

As part of the process, the FCC must require applicants to provide a proposal for deploying the broadband network. The proposal must contain enough detail and documentation for the FCC to ascertain whether the applicant has the technical capabilities to deploy the proposed network and deliver services.

The FCC must evaluate proposals against reasonable and well-established technical standards.

Current Status of Bill S 275

Bill S 275 is currently in the status of Passed in Senate since September 25, 2024. Bill S 275 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on February 7, 2023.  Bill S 275's most recent activity was Held at the desk. as of September 27, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 275

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
2
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 275

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Potential Impact Areas

- Internet, web applications, social media
- Rural conditions and development
- Telephone and wireless communication

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 275

Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2024
Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2024
Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2024
A bill to require the Federal Communications Commission to establish a vetting process for prospective applicants for high-cost universal service program funding.
Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2023

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