Rep. Marino Fights for Rural Broadband Access

Press Release

Congressman Tom Marino (PA-10) issued the following statement regarding his recent efforts to increase rural access to broadband internet:

"It is unacceptable that in 21st Century America, millions of people lack access to reliable and affordable broadband internet. Of the 24 million U.S. households that do not have access to broadband internet, 80% are located in rural areas.

"This disparity of internet access between urban and rural areas translates to tremendously negative impacts on local economies. Because of the lack of widespread broadband deployment, rural communities often miss out on opportunities to participate in today's e-commerce marketplace, obtain advanced online education, and use new technologies that require stable high-speed connections.

"I am proud to say that I have fought for my constituents in rural Pennsylvania to bridge the digital divide between big cities and small-town America. Last month's spending bill contained $600 million in funding to expand rural access to broadband through the USDA's Rural Utilities Service. This funding, combined with state and local resources, will leverage nearly $1 billion in new rural broadband projects.

"Additionally, President Trump's proposed Fiscal Year 2019 budget calls for a $50 billion investment in rural infrastructure, including rural broadband deployment. I will continue to take action to ensure that Congress implements the President's rural infrastructure plans, and I look forward to bringing greater economic opportunities to rural America through expanded access to broadband."

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