house Resolution No.283

Rep. Hoitenga offered the following resolution:

A resolution to urge the Congress of the United States to allocate funding for states that have established broadband expansion block grant programs.

Whereas, Broadband internet is a critically important communications method Americans use to connect with one another. Businesses, consumers, workers, and students use the internet for a variety of purposes, making it indispensable in today's society; and

Whereas, During the COVID-19 crisis, the internet has become an even more important and essential tool in providing a means for Americans to connect with work, school, and health care. Ensuring that all Americans have access to broadband services at speeds they need to fully participate in our society is imperative; and

Whereas, Multiple states have established broadband expansion block grant programs to distribute funds to internet service providers for the purpose of building out broadband infrastructure in rural and underserved areas of their states. This includes Michigan's Connecting Michigan Communities grant program; and

Whereas, Congress can assist states working to increase broadband availability to homes, business, and other entities by making funds available to improve and continue expanding broadband infrastructure; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the Congress of the United States to allocate funding for states that have established broadband expansion block grant programs; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.