STATEHOUSE (April 19, 2021) – Legislation supported by Morgan County lawmakers to prioritize broadband access for students, schools and rural clinics could soon be law.
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) 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 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."
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. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) 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.
"There is a pressing need to expand broadband access for our rural communities," Baird said. "Using funds from the grant program provides the opportunity for unserved and underserved Hoosiers to get quality internet services."
According to State Rep. John Young (R-Franklin), 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.
"While we often think of the internet as a means for entertainment, it's an integral part of our lives whether we need to pay our bills, access health care or work," Young said. "As many continue relying more and more on the Internet, affordable broadband access is critical."
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. 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. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) represents House District 44, which includes
all of Putnam County and portions of Clay, Morgan, Owen and Parke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. John Young (R-Franklin) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Morgan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
