Rep. McDowell Introduces Broadband Infrastructure Extension Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, June 29th, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) introduced the Broadband Infrastructure Extension Act. This legislation would extend expenditure deadlines for certain broadband infrastructure projects funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The legislation provides states and local communities additional time to complete broadband projects already underway, helping ensure rural communities are not forced to abandon critical infrastructure investments because of federal deadlines.

Broadband has become an essential part of modern infrastructure, and it is vital that rural communities have the time and resources they need to get brought up to speed," Congressman McDowell said. "Rural communities are putting money to work, and Congress has an obligation to ensure arbitrary deadlines do not stand in the way of progress. Overall this is a very commonsense action the government can take to give states and communities the time they need to deliver internet access to families, schools and businesses."

Original Cosponsors: Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11) and Rep. Tim Moore (NC-14).

The Broadband Infrastructure Extension Act extends the expenditure deadlines for broadband-related State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds through September 30, 2027, and the Capital Projects Fund through January 1, 2028.

Read the full bull text here.