Iowa house addresses need for broadband

Posted 7/14/21

Iowa has among the slowest Internet speeds in the country, with some parts of the state having no meaningful service available at all.

The pandemic has made us even more aware of the need for all …

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Iowa house addresses need for broadband

Posted

Iowa has among the slowest Internet speeds in the country, with some parts of the state having no meaningful service available at all.

The pandemic has made us even more aware of the need for all Iowans to have good Internet access — for health care, education, work and staying connected to loved ones. It’s become a key component of our economy and quality of life.

I voted this year to step up the expansion of high-speed Internet to every corner of the state. HF 848 established new criteria for awarding grants to install broadband infrastructure, improve speeds and encourage rapid rollout.

Grants to expand broadband service

Internet service providers can now apply for funding through the revamped Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Grant Program.

The latest round of funding is providing $100 million for broadband infrastructure projects that will expand telework, telehealth, distance learning and other remote services in areas that need them most. Applications are due by July 28.

Awards may cover up to 75% of project costs, with amounts based on the proposed broadband speed and the need for better Internet service in the geographical area.

For application materials and complete details on funding and eligibility, go to ocio.iowa.gov/empower-rural-iowa-broadband-grant-program-notice-funding-availability-006.

Support for Iowa’s broadband expansion grants comes from state and federal sources, including a significant infusion from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan.

Financial help for home connectivity

In addition, Iowans can apply for the federal Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, which pro-vides a temporary discount on monthly broadband bills for qualifying low-income households.

If your household is eligible, you can receive:

• A discount on your broadband service and equipment rentals

• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet or desktop computer

Go to GetEmergencyBroadband.org to apply online and to find participating local service providers.

State Senator Kevin Kinney represents Iowa Senate District 39, which includes Keokuk County and much of Washington and Johnson counties. Contact him at 319-631-4667. E-mail him at kev-in.kinney@legis.iowa.gov.