STATEHOUSE (April 19, 2021) – Legislation supported by Monroe County lawmakers to prioritize broadband access for students, schools and rural clinics could soon be law.
State Rep. Jeff Ellington (R-Bloomington) said rural communities throughout the state struggle to get quality access to broadband and high speed internet. Currently, Indiana's infrastructure plan includes the Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program, which is available to supply reliable and affordable broadband service to areas of the state without good internet connection through the Office of Rural and Community Affairs. Under this legislation, OCRA must make it a priority to deploy these grants to unserved areas most in need first.
"The gaps in broadband availability are apparent, as many Hoosiers struggle to find reliable access to complete simple tasks like pay bills online," Ellington said. "This legislation is a step in the right direction to connect our rural communities to the quality internet they need."
The bill would create a reverse auction for students who can self-report a lack of educational broadband service through a portal on the OCRA website. State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) said the broadband company that can provide service to the student's household for the lowest amount of money would be awarded the Next Level Connections grant.
"The pandemic forced many Hoosiers to stay home and use the internet for many aspects of life," Mayfield said. "The lack of reliable and affordable broadband puts many at a disadvantage. Prioritizing access for those who need it most is key to getting the state connected."
According to State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute), a new voucher program will also be created through the legislation to help schools and clinics cover the cost of obtaining better internet speeds and higher quality connection.
"Using money from the grant program provides unserved and underserved Hoosiers the chance to obtain a reliable internet connection," Heaton said. "Not having broadband access can be a roadblock for clinics to provide quality care for their community, or for others needing to work or study from home."
House Enrolled Act 1449 now heads to the governor for consideration as a new law. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Jeff Ellington (R-Bloomington) represents House District 62, which includes
portions of Greene, Monroe, Martin and Daviess counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Morgan and Monroe counties.
Click here for a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes portions of Clay, Monroe, Owen and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
