NE Missouri News

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, celebrated the passage of his legislation, the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act, in the House of Representatives with bipartisan support.

Graves emphasized the significance of the E-BRIDGE Act in addressing the lack of broadband access in rural communities, stating, "Too many of our communities, particularly in rural America, still lack broadband access. In some cases, just completing that ‘last mile’ is what stands in the way of connecting people to a job they need. The E-BRIDGE Act will help spur projects that attract jobs and businesses to expand economic development and opportunity across North Missouri."

The E-BRIDGE Act aims to facilitate broadband projects under Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants by removing obstacles, especially in challenging last-mile efforts that often impede rural broadband deployment. It also enables local communities to collaborate with the private sector in implementing broadband projects and provides more flexibility for communities to meet their funding match requirements.

With the House approval secured, the E-BRIDGE Act now advances to the Senate for further consideration. Interested individuals can find more information about the E-BRIDGE Act on the official website and read the full bill for detailed insights.

This legislative development underscores the ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and enhance internet accessibility in underserved regions, reflecting a commitment to fostering economic growth and opportunity through improved connectivity.