Tipton Votes to Bolster Broadband Development

Statement

Congressman Scott Tipton (CO-03) voted to reauthorize the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the first time in 28 years, establishing reforms to improve the agency. The RAY BAUM'S Act (H.R. 4986) includes important provisions to address America's continued need for reliable broadband. H.R. 4986 passed the House unanimously.

"Many rural communities in Colorado and across the US still do not have access to reliable broadband due in large part to government red tape, misappropriation of resources and poor planning. This is unacceptable and bridging this expanding broadband access remains a top priority for me," said Tipton. "A community without access to quick and reliable internet will be left behind in today's technology-driven economy and learning environment. The bill we passed today will facilitate more investment in broadband infrastructure and increase access to high-speed internet to help close the digital divide once and for all."

H.R. 4986 includes provisions from the Senate approved MOBILE NOW Act (S. 19), which would bolster the development of 5G wireless broadband by working to identify more spectrum for private sector use in addition to reducing the red tape that comes with building wireless networks. The bill also streamlines the process for building out broadband infrastructure on existing assets on federal property.

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