Dundee Independent: Walberg leads bipartisan, bicameral bill to streamline broadband efforts

U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Annie Kuster (D-NH) were joined by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), John Thune (R-SD), and Peter Welch (D-VT) to introduce the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.

The PLAN for Broadband Act is based upon a Government Accountability Office report that found federal broadband efforts are fragmented and overlapping. 
The report recommended that a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplication and ensure funds are reaching the truly unserved and underserved.

“Experts have testified that we have enough funding to bridge the digital divide but don’t have the proper strategy,” said Congressman Tim Walberg.
He added, “The PLAN for Broadband Act will increase coordination among all relevant federal agencies, prevent wasteful and duplicative efforts, and increase efficiency to close the divide. I look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Kuster to advance this vital piece of legislation to ensure that no one is left behind in today’s digital age.”

Read the full article at The Dundee Independent.