WASHINGTON DC (June 12, 2019) — Representative Dave Loebsack today welcomed the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announcement that they will take steps to improve the collection of data regarding who across the country has access to high-speed broadband internet. Currently, the FCC maps only take into account where broadband could be offered, not where broadband is actually available.
"In order to actually fix the problem and get high-speed broadband to rural areas, we must have the correct data," Rep Loebsack said. "Without knowing where the high-speed broadband problem truly exists, we cannot properly invest in building out access. I welcome the FCC’s commitment and look forward to working with them to ensure all Iowans, no matter where they live, have access to high-speed broadband internet."
A significant digital divide remains between urban and rural America. Rep Loebsack is a leader in working to close this divide by promoting broadband deployment throughout rural America. Rep Loebsack serves on the Communications and Technology subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over telecommunications issues. He also serves as a co-chair of the Rural Broadband Caucus.
