Rural broadband leaders prepare to work with Biden Administration

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Rural broadband leaders prepare to work with Biden Administration

The head of the Rural Broadband Association says internet access will continue to be a challenge for President-Elect Joe Biden as the ongoing pandemic highlights the need for better connectivity.

CEO Shirley Bloomfield says every American, no matter where they live, deserves the opportunity to have robust, reliable broadband.

Bloomfield says COVID-19 has also delayed access to equipment for providers to expand services.  A recent survey by their organization found nearly 90 percent of members have experienced delays, in some cases with more than three-month wait times.

She says its terrific there’s more investment in rural broadband, but it’s equally important for the supply chain to keep up with demand.

Congress has invested more than a billion dollars in rural broadband since 2018 through the ReConnect Program and the incoming Biden Administration is expected to step up broadband access and affordability even more.

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