Rural Broadband Access Is Focus of Rep. Delgado's at Small Business Committee Hearing

Press Release

During today's Small Business Committee hearing focused on economic growth for underserved businesses, Rep. Antonio Delgado (NY-19) emphasized the importance of expanding rural broadband access so businesses can prosper in Upstate New York.

"In parts of my district, I drive by large signs that read, "broadband coming soon.' It's a sight that is hard to imagine in New York, in the USA, in the 21st century," Delgado stated. "I can't overstate how big an issue this is for small businesses and communities in my district in Upstate New York. In today's global economy, it's unthinkable that startup businesses, mom and pop shops, young students, small dairy farmers, and innovative sustainable agriculture operations are being left behind because of where they live and operate."

Delgado focused on what can be done not just to expand broadband access, but to ensure that once it is provided, it is high-quality enough for businesses to take advantage of. "As we look to a more connected future, I think it's critical that we also work to ensure equitable broadband access. The minimum service thresholds today will be unworkable for folks tomorrow," Delgado said. Committee hearing witness Michael Romano of the NTCA--The Rural Broadband Association agreed that workable broadband access is a key priority, and pointed to 100MB as a desired standard.

Delgado also expressed his concern for the Federal Communications Commission's deeply flawed broadband maps. Current mapping practices rely on census blocks that, in rural areas, can span multiple counties. If just one home in a given block has broadband, the entire area is considered "served." Delgado focused some of his time during the hearing today calling for the establishment of an accurate national broadband map.

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