Bill > HR1838

This bill amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to improve broadband internet access in rural areas, with a specific focus on rural ports and agricultural lands. The legislation creates new priorities for broadband infrastructure grants, including giving priority to projects that support precision agriculture and broadband deployment in rural ports. It defines a "port" broadly to include navigable waters, marine terminals, and facilities used for moving goods. The bill increases potential grant funding to up to 75% of project development costs for eligible rural communities and requires recipients to provide precise geolocation data about new broadband service installations. Additionally, the bill mandates communication between the Secretary of Agriculture and the Federal Communications Commission to ensure grant-funded services meet universal service standards. The legislation also streamlines the application process, requires timely feedback for applicants, and allows for preliminary fund allocation before completing environmental reviews. Importantly, the bill sets aside at least 1% of funds for oversight and accountability measures, demonstrating a commitment to effective implementation of the broadband expansion program.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1838/all-info