Senate Considers Bill to Expand Broadband Access in Appalachia Through Satellite Technology
A bipartisan effort led by U.S. Senator Jon Husted, a Republican from Columbus, and U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks, a Democrat from Maryland, is underway to enhance internet access in Appalachia. The proposed legislation, known as the 'Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act,' mandates a study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office to evaluate the feasibility of integrating satellite technology into broadband projects managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission. This initiative follows a similar measure passed unanimously by the House of Representatives in March, introduced by Rep. Dave Taylor of Clermont County. The study will assess the effectiveness of satellite broadband for business use, its economic impact in areas already utilizing it, and its cost-efficiency. The bill aims to address the connectivity issues faced by over 300,000 Ohio households, affecting nearly 1 million residents, by potentially allowing rural communities to access broadband funding through the Appalachian Regional C... 
