QUICK SUMMARY
Texas will receive nearly $1.3 billion in federal broadband funding, far below the $3.3 billion initially expected, frustrating rural communities. Local leaders worry this cutback hampers efforts to improve digital access for millions of Texans, particularly in underserved areas.
Texas is set to receive approximately $1.3 billion in federal broadband funding, a significant reduction from the anticipated $3.3 billion. This funding shortfall has sparked frustration among rural communities facing persistent digital connectivity challenges. Local leaders, including Lonnie Hunt, highlight that this outcome threatens initiatives aimed at delivering reliable high-speed internet. The federal funding, linked to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program, comes after Texas submitted a revised plan. Currently, over 2.8 million households lack broadband access, translating to about 7 million Texans, with rural areas experiencing the most pronounced disparities. The state's revised initiative aims to connect about 123,000 locations with fiber, while additional technologies will serve other areas. Advocates like Kelty Garbee express concern that the reduced allocation is inadequate for ensuring equitable service quality. The ongoing political discourse around the funding highlights the challenges of addressing broadband access in Texas.