To increase the minimum broadband service capacity for projects under the Community Connect Grant Program, and for other purposes.

Plain-English Summary

This bill proposes to update the minimum internet speed requirements for a federal grant program called the Community Connect Grant Program. This program provides funding to help bring broadband internet service to rural and underserved communities that currently lack adequate connectivity. The change would require any projects funded through this program to meet a higher standard of internet speed and capacity than what is currently required.

The primary goal is to ensure that federal grant money is being used to build internet infrastructure that meets modern needs, rather than funding connections that may quickly become outdated or insufficient. As internet usage has grown — for things like video streaming, remote work, telehealth, and online education — older minimum speed standards may no longer reflect what households and businesses actually need to function effectively.

This bill would most directly affect rural communities and internet service providers applying for Community Connect grants. Communities seeking funding would need to meet the updated speed thresholds to qualify, and providers building out infrastructure in these areas would need to plan their projects accordingly. The intent is to make sure that newly built networks deliver a meaningful level of service to residents who have historically lacked reliable internet access.

The bill has been referred to both the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, which share oversight of broadband and rural development programs. It is still in the early stages of the legislative process.