Letter to Leadership on Broadband Infrastructure Package

Today NATOA joined with NLC, USCM and NACo in submitting this letter to House and Senate leadership emphasizing our priorities for the broadband portion of the infrastructure package.  While the most recent bill allows local governments to apply for broadband funding if the state does not, we are advocating for local governments to have the ability to directly apply for these funds regardless of whether or not the state applies.  We are also seeking stronger provisions regarding the minimum speeds, assurances of affordable service options, removal of current provisions impacting local authority over the rights-of-way, preemption of state laws that limit or preclude municipal broadband, more ability to fund last-mile broadband projects and additional funds for the ECF and EBB programs.