Sen. Ossoff Presses Trump Administration to End Freeze on Broadband Internet Expansion in Georgia

It has come to my attention that you have frozen implementation of the historic broadband expansion initiative passed as part of the bipartisan infrastructure law. I urge you reverse course and to fully implement this program without delay.   My office has worked closely with communities across Georgia to ensure FCC broadband maps fully reflect unmet need and we now stand on the cusp of connecting households throughout the State to reliable high-speed internet.  This program, passed by Congress with strong bipartisan majorities, is unlike any comparable Federal effort since rural electrification in the 1930s. Your suspension of the program is needlessly hindering progress. I further note that Georgia communities are eager to realize the benefits of broadband connectivity via the expansion of fiberoptic cable networks. Where possible, permanent fiber infrastructure offers unparallelled reliability and speed without the vulnerabilities associated with reliance on a single satellite internet provider, and the expansion of fiber networks across America is the clear intent of the statute. Internet service providers, utilities, and local governments in Georgia stand ready to do their part laying new fiber and connecting their communities with broadband internet service. Please respond within fourteen days confirming you have lifted your suspension of the BEAD program.