In an effort to tackle the ongoing problem of insufficient internet access in various regions of the United States, Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) has reintroduced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. This legislation requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to develop and execute a comprehensive national strategy to bridge the digital divide.
Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) has reintroduced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act as part of an effort to address the continuing issue of insufficient internet access in numerous regions of the United States. This legislation requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to create and implement a comprehensive national approach to closing the digital divide. With this initiative, the NTIA will work with stakeholders in the public and private sectors to create a plan for broadband deployment across the country.
The PLAN for Broadband Act addresses the fragmented federal broadband programs that have hampered efforts to connect unserved areas with internet access. The act would do this by requiring the NTIA to implement a plan that addresses the gaps in current broadband access. It aims to ensure the efficient use of federal funds by requiring clear roles, objectives, goals, and performance measures for each program and project. The transparency and accountability provisions of the PLAN for Broadband Act help ensure that federal broadband funds are used efficiently and that they have the greatest impact in the areas where they are needed most.
This legislative move reflects a growing recognition of the critical role that internet access plays in modern society, impacting areas such as education, healthcare, and economic development. By establishing a unified national strategy, the PLAN for Broadband Act endeavors to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to the opportunities that reliable internet service provides.