Remarks by US Commerce Secretary Raimondo on Broadband Programs in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

"Last year, Congress passed the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act], which includes more than $42 billion in grants to states and territories focused on funding high-speed broadband deployment to households and businesses that currently lack access to these services," said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to the National Governor's Association. "States will soon have access to initial planning funds, which will help inform a five-year action plan. We need you to start preparing for this program now. Think strategically about the best location for your broadband program within your government, including where you can leverage expertise and shared services such as grants management." Secretary Raimondo also encouraged governors and state leaders to plan for digital equity solutions, saying, "The law includes nearly $3 billion in funding for the Digital Equity Act. Some that funding will used to promote digital inclusion and equity for communities that don’t have what they need to take advantage of broadband connections. Earlier this month, we released a request for comment on many of the broadband programs in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Please make your voices heard so that we know what’s really happening on the ground as we design these programs."