The push for broadband

The need for high-speed broadband access has been acutely felt amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with so many needing to work, study and receive health care at home. Still, many in rural states like Vermont can't connect because the largest internet providers will not connect the most remote addresses — it's not a financial winner for their business model.

Now, there is a renewed push in Congress to expand broadband access as states look to revive their economies. U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, is among the House members supporting an $80 billion proposal to deploy more high-speed broadband access throughout the country, including under-served rural regions like Vermont. Welch is part of the House Rural Broadband Caucus that pushed for the broadband money’s inclusion in a massive infrastructure bill.

Earlier this week, Rep. Tim Briglin, of Thetford, chair of the Vermont House Energy and Technology Committee, said he hoped local communications union districts can benefit from upcoming federal dollars for broadband. One such district is ECFiber, which oversees a high-speed fiber-optic network in east-central Vermont.

On Vermont Public Radio on Tuesday, Welch pointed out ECFiber as an example of how a locally-grown high-speed system which puts its customers first can succeed. In response to several callers, Welch later said federal money for high-speed broadband should be deployed in a way that defers to Vermont leadership and organizations on how to spend the money.

If more broadband money comes to Vermont, and that flexibility is allowed, local efforts to expand access may benefit. But that will depend on how much money the state receives from this proposal, if passed.

Overall, the motive is clear: High-speed internet is something everyone needs. It is pivotal to career and educational opportunities and overall quality of life. It’s only right that everyone have access, so that each household — regardless of income or locations — can benefit from future technological advances. Working together and speaking with one voice, we can create momentum on this important issue and make a difference for our economic future.

— Gareth Henderson