HOUSTON, Texas– A Texas official is pushing for the removal of low-cost broadband requirements tied to federal funds.
Texas is set to receive more than $3 billion to expand internet access across the state, but the official argues that these requirements could make it difficult for broadband providers to offer competitive and affordable services.
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar recommended that federal officials change the requirements for the broadband funding, including eliminating the low-cost stipulation.
He suggested this change in a letter to U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, who chairs the Senate committee overseeing the federal agency responsible for allocating the broadband funds.
The official contends that removing these affordability stipulations would allow providers more flexibility in pricing and service options, potentially speeding up the expansion of internet services across Texas.
The goal of the federal funding is to address gaps in internet access, especially in rural and underserved areas, to ensure that Texans have reliable access to the internet for education, work, and healthcare.
