Alabama is set to receive $1.4 billion from the U.S. Department of Commerce to aid ongoing broadband expansion efforts, benefiting previously unserved or underserved areas. The funding will be used by The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to provide internet service to these areas. Governor Kay Ivey expressed her priority for Alabama to gain full access to high-speed internet, and the announcement marks a significant step towards achieving that goal. ADECA will have 180 days to prepare and submit final plans for the use of the funds.
President Joe Biden announced the distribution of $42.5 billion from the bipartisan infrastructure law to expand high-speed internet access across the US, with the aim of connecting all residents and small businesses to reliable, affordable high-speed internet by 2030. The funding will go to all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and US territories, and is aimed at bolstering internet access particularly for the 7% of people who live in underserved areas. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris plan to kick off a three-week pitch aimed at touting their administration's investments across the country, including the 2021 infrastructure law and a host of other legislation they argue is starting to make concrete improvements in Americans' lives.
