USDA Accepting Comments on Broadband ReConnect Program

The US. Department of Agriculture is accepting comments on a final rule to expand broadband service in rural areas by simplifying program requirements to make more companies eligible to participate in USDA’s ReConnect Program. The ReConnect Program offers loans, grants and loan/grant combinations to facilitate broadband deployment in rural areas. 

The rule will eliminate paperwork, shorten the application process, and enable an applicant to submit a letter of credit as proof of its financial ability to complete a project. These changes are expected to allow more companies to participate in the program. The changes take effect April 27 at the end of the 60-day comment period. 

Comments must be submitted through https://www.regulations.gov by April 27. For additional information, click here.