Bill > HR3119

This bill amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to establish the ReConnect program, which aims to expand broadband internet access in rural areas. The bill defines a "rural area" as any location outside of larger cities or urban centers, with specific population and demographic criteria. The program will provide grants, loans, and combinations of grants and loans to eligible entities to construct, improve, and acquire broadband infrastructure. To qualify for funding, projects must provide high-speed internet service with at least 100 Mbps download and upload speeds in areas where 75% of households currently lack access. The bill gives priority to projects in smaller, isolated, or economically disadvantaged communities, and requires recipients to participate in affordable connectivity programs. Eligible entities include state and local governments, Indian Tribes, cooperatives, corporations, and other organizations, but excludes individuals and general partnerships. The program is funded with $650 million annually from fiscal years 2026 to 2030, with up to 5% allocated for administrative costs. Recipients may be required to provide a cost share of up to 25% of the project cost, though this can be waived for certain entities. The bill also mandates periodic reviews of broadband service standards to ensure rural areas receive high-quality, cost-effective internet access.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3119/all-info