ReConnecting Rural America Act of 2023

The ReConnecting Rural America Act of 2023 provides $650 million annually (2024-2028) in federal grants and loans to expand high-speed broadband access in rural areas. It requires projects to serve locations where at least 75% of households lack 100 Mbps downstream and 20 Mbps upstream internet service, with priority given to areas where 90% of households lack such access. Eligible applicants include tribes, cooperatives, local governments, and nonprofits, all required to meet minimum speed standards (100 Mbps both ways) and commit to long-term service. The bill aims to reduce rural broadband gaps by funding infrastructure deployment, with funds expiring after 2028.