U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) to introduce the Connected Rural Schools Act in an effort to close the digital disconnect for rural students.
The legislation adds broadband and other internet accessibility technologies to the list of eligible items on which Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program dollars can be spent. The SRS program provides assistance to rural counties impacted by the decline in revenue from land use activities on federal lands.
“Connectivity has become an integral part of our everyday lives and lack of access to broadband puts rural America in danger of falling behind the curve. This is especially true when it comes to education. Having the ability to get online at school is as essential as having modern textbooks and ample supplies. I am pleased to join with my colleagues to introduce this bill that will help ensure that children in our rural communities have the same opportunities as their peers in urban and suburban schools,” Boozman said.
“Nevada’s rural communities are full of bright and eager students who need reliable internet access to reach their full educational potential. This legislation will help ensure that even students who live in the Silver State’s most remote counties can access the 21st century technology and resources they need to thrive. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to direct federal funding to projects that will improve rural broadband and school connectivity. I’ll continue to fight to secure meaningful investments in Nevada’s young people, no matter their zip code,” the bill’s lead author, Cortez Masto, said.
Boozman is a co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, a bipartisan group aimed at closing the digital divide.
