This proposal would expand high-speed internet in rural communities by giving grants and loans to build or upgrade networks. Projects must offer at least 100 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload, and they can only go to areas where at least 75% of homes still lack access to 100/20 service. Priority goes to places with the greatest need (90% without 100/20), small or isolated towns, areas losing population, and communities with many low‑income families. Projects that commit to paying local prevailing wages and that help farmers use precision agriculture also get priority. Some grant‑only awards are reserved for Tribal organizations, colonias, persistent‑poverty counties, and socially vulnerable communities, or for areas where 90% of homes lack 100/20 service.
Who can apply includes states, local governments, Tribes, co‑ops, and companies; individuals and general partnerships cannot. Winners must finish buildout within 5 years and take part in a federal internet affordability program like the Affordable Connectivity Program or Lifeline (or a successor) . The program can require up to a 25% cost share, with waivers for the hardest‑hit groups, and sets aside 3–5% of funds for technical help and training. To avoid waste, no single large provider or state can receive more than 15% of yearly funds, and the program generally avoids building over other government‑funded networks unless those networks fail to deliver at least 100/20 to most homes in the area. The program’s speed standards must be reviewed at least every two years to keep up with technology, and the minimum level for rural service is set at 100/100.
Last progress April 30, 2025 (8 months ago)
Introduced on April 30, 2025 by Zach Nunn
Referred to the Committee on Agriculture, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Appropriations, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Updated 1 week ago
Last progress October 30, 2025 (2 months ago)