Bill > HJR6

This joint resolution urges the United States Congress to protect the Universal Service Fund (USF), a critical program that provides funding for telecommunications and broadband infrastructure in rural and low-income areas. The resolution highlights the significant impact of the USF, which provides over $500 million annually to support essential services such as internet and telephone connectivity for schools, libraries, healthcare providers, and individual consumers. If the USF were to be discontinued, the resolution warns of severe consequences, including approximately 220 rural hospitals losing $221 million in annual support, 500 rural schools losing affordable broadband, 80 libraries losing internet access, and up to 19,000 residents potentially losing critical communication services. The resolution specifically calls on the Alaska Congressional delegation to safeguard the USF's funding and authority, potentially through legislative measures to address any legal challenges, and encourages bipartisan cooperation to ensure the sustainability of these vital programs that help bridge the connectivity gap in rural areas.

Business and Industry

Labor & Commerce (House)

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HJR6