For Immediate Release
Contact: Carolyn Just, 703-351-2015, [email protected]
Arlington, Va., (June 18, 2020) – NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association today issued the following statement from Chief Executive Officer Shirley Bloomfield regarding the Rural Connectivity Advancement Program Act of 2020 introduced today by Senator John Thune (R-S.D.).
“NTCA wholeheartedly endorses this legislation and thanks Senator Thune for his leadership on this bill. For years, he has been one of the strongest proponents in Washington for ensuring that every American has access to the communications services necessary for online commerce, remote education, telehealth, and civic engagement in today’s world.
“The legislation introduced today represents yet another measure of that leadership and a reaffirmed commitment to achieving the goal of universal service. The Rural Connectivity Advancement Program Act of 2020 would leverage efforts that have already proven effective in tackling connectivity challenges in rural America, and provide much-needed resources to help the FCC build upon the successes thus far of these existing programs to close the remaining digital divide.
“Broadband matters now more than ever, and it has become a lifeline for our communities to the world. NTCA members have been building Smart Rural Communities℠ for decades and their commitment to connecting rural America is second to none. This legislation would enhance such efforts to deploy and sustain broadband in rural areas.
“As Congress and the Administration consider initiatives to improve our nation’s infrastructure, we are hopeful that this legislation can and will serve as a thoughtful foundation for those discussions.”
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