Findlay Times

Today, Congressman Bob Latta, Chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, announced his participation in the Universal Service Fund (USF) Working Group. This bipartisan effort, led by Senators Ben Ray Luján and John Thune, aims to evaluate and propose reforms to the USF in order to bridge the digital divide and provide universal connectivity, education, healthcare, and affordability.

The USF Working Group was established earlier this year in the Senate to guide education, awareness, and policy-making related to the USF. By joining this group, Congressman Latta and Ranking Member Doris Matsui demonstrate their commitment to supporting the USF and ensuring long-term solutions for rural broadband access.

As Chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, Congressman Latta has been dedicated to closing the digital divide and expanding rural broadband access. He emphasizes the importance of providing internet access to unserved communities across the United States. Congressman Latta stated, "I look forward to working together in a bipartisan and bicameral fashion to strengthen the USF, examine future broadband programs, and ensure the citizens I serve in Ohio’s Fifth District have access to reliable broadband Internet."

Congresswoman Matsui also recognizes the significance of reliable broadband access, stating, "Closing the digital divide remains a top, bipartisan priority. That’s why I am joining together with this bicameral group to find solutions, strengthen the Universal Service Fund, and ensure it remains resilient for years to come."

The USF has played a crucial role in expanding broadband access for schools, hospitals, and communities across America. Senator Luján, a member of the USF Working Group, expressed his pride in welcoming his House colleagues to the group, stating, "I’m proud to welcome my House colleagues to this bipartisan working group to strengthen the USF and ensure the program can meet their mission of connecting every household to universal service."

Senator Thune, also a member of the USF Working Group, emphasized his commitment to ensuring rural Americans have access to communication services. He welcomed the involvement of House colleagues in this important effort.

Congressman Latta's dedication to improving rural broadband access is evident in his previous work. His Broadband Data Act, signed into law in 2020, required the FCC to create new and updated broadband maps to allocate federal resources appropriately to communities lacking internet access.

This bipartisan and bicameral effort demonstrates the commitment of lawmakers to address the digital divide and provide reliable broadband Internet access to all Americans.

For more information, please visit:

• Universal Service Fund Working Group
• Broadband Data Act