U.S. Representative Rodney L. Davis (IL - 13) issued the following announcement on May 21.
U.S. Representatives Rodney Davis (IL-13) and Mike Bost (IL-12) introduced the Gigabit Opportunity (GO) Act to expand broadband access to underserved areas. The GO Act, H.R. 3377, acknowledges the importance of high-speed internet to the 21st century economy and accordingly encourages private investment in broadband service through targeted tax incentives in areas that still lack access.
The GO Act would empower states to designate low-income areas that lack fixed wireless broadband service at speeds of at least 25 / 3 mbps. as "Gigabit Opportunity Zones." Eligible areas for designated opportunity zones must face obstacles to economic development due to lack of broadband coverage or speed or require access to high-speed broadband for commercial purposes.
Despite numerous federal and state-level efforts to deploy broadband infrastructure, at least 19 million Americans remain without access to any form of reliable broadband service.
"I represent a fairly diverse district across central and southwestern Illinois that includes both urban and rural communities, and many of them still do not have access to high-speed broadband, which is becoming increasingly important to daily life," said Rep. Davis. "That's why I'm proud to introduce the GO Act so we can ensure that these communities have an equal shot at participating in the 21st century economy via high-speed broadband."
"The need for fast, affordable, and reliable broadband has never been more apparent than over this past year. I’m proud to support the GO Act to help bridge the digital divide and bring much needed internet access to rural areas across the country, including Southern Illinois," said Rep. Bost.
Background:
Targeting Development to Unserved Communities:
· The FCC would first publish a Uniform Model Broadband Deployment Act, containing guidelines for State governments on how to set up and maintain Gigabit Opportunity Zones.
Eligibility as a Gigabit Opportunity Zone:
· An area deemed low-income and without fixed wireless broadband service at speeds of at least 25/3 mbps.
· An area that faces obstacles to economic development due to a lack of broadband coverage or speed.
· An area where economic growth would require access to high-speed broadband for commercial purposes.
Incentivizing Private Investment and Cutting Red Tape:
· Providers would receive deferrals, reductions, or exemptions from taxes on capital gains invested in property used to provide service in Gigabit Opportunity Zones.
· Broadband deployment projects in Gigabit Opportunity Zones would be eligible for Private Activity Bonds (PABs).
In an increasingly virtual world, the GO Act will encourage private investment to help bridge the digital divide and ensure communities are no longer left behind.
The lead sponsor of the GO Act is Rep. Kat Cammack (FL-03).
Original source can be found here.