Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), together with Representatives Joe Neguse (CO-02), Angie Craig (MN-02), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Kat Cammack (FL-03), and Jack Bergman (MI-01) introduced H.R. 6314, the Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act, directing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve funding for the Universal Service Fund (USF) to allow for expanded access to broadband and other telecommunications services. 

“It is so important to ensure Americans have access to broadband, wherever they live,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “I am glad to join Representatives Neguse, Craig, DeGette, Cammack, and Bergman in introducing this bipartisan legislation to ensure the Universal Service Fund remains strong and available to help expand broadband infrastructure across the country.” 

“To fully participate in the modern era, small business owners, students, families, and workers in rural communities require consistent, reliable broadband connectivity,” said Congressman Joe Neguse. “Our bill, the Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act, will ensure our federal agencies are utilizing all tools at their disposal to expand access to broadband and other telecommunications services, to connect our communities.”  

The Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act is the companion to Senate legislation S. 3236, originally introduced by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Thune (R-SD).  

The USF, as a subsidiary of the FCC, supports programs that increase broadband access in rural communities and expands access to affordable broadband service for underserved families, schools, and libraries. Broadband is vital for economic development, care deliverability, and the expansion of educational services.