MADISON, Wis. — As Wisconsin anticipates millions of dollars in federal relief from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, agriculture organizations and rural leaders are hailing the President for including broadband in the historic legislation.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will dedicate over $100 million to expanding access to broadband in Wisconsin, including providing access to the at least 318,000 Wisconsin residents who currently lack it. The infrastructure law will also make 1,246,000, 22% of people in Wisconsin, eligible for the Affordability Connectivity Benefit, which will help low-income families afford internet access.
This federal infrastructure legislation builds on Democrats’ long commitment to expanding broadband access across Wisconsin — since 2019, Governor Evers has provided more than 300,000 homes and businesses with access to new or improved service. Gov. Evers declared 2021 the “Year of Broadband Access” and dedicated $200 million in his first budget to broadband expansion programs, with the goal of connecting every home in Wisconsin. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will provide the federal funds to make that goal a reality.
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is all about building bridges — both literally and figuratively — as we work to connect the state through reliable internet,” said Democratic Party of Wisconsin Rapid Response Director Julia Hamelburg. “Thanks to President Biden and Democrats in Congress passing this historic investment, and Gov. Evers’ continued commitment to expanding broadband, Wisconsinites from every neighborhood are going to have the access and opportunities to thrive.”
Read about all the ways the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal will benefit Wisconsin here.