Senator Husted Advocates for Satellite Broadband to Enhance Internet Access in Appalachia
U.S. Senator Jon Husted, a Republican from Columbus, has introduced a bipartisan bill alongside Maryland Democrat Senator Angela Alsobrooks to improve internet access in Appalachia through satellite technology. The proposed legislation, known as the 'Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act,' mandates a study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office to assess the feasibility of integrating satellite broadband into the Appalachian Regional Commission's projects. This initiative aims to address the connectivity challenges faced by over 300,000 Ohio households lacking broadband access. The bill follows a similar measure passed by the House of Representatives, introduced by Rep. Dave Taylor. The study will evaluate the economic impact and cost-effectiveness of satellite broadband, potentially allowing rural communities to secure funding for broadband expansion.