Dingell Celebrates Funding to Expand Broadband Statewide

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today celebrated the National Telecommunication and Information Administration’s (NTIA) announcement awarding Michigan $920 million in federal funding directed to the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program– an essential step in expanding high-speed internet access for more than 200,000 Michiganders. “Approximately 30% of Michigan households do not have access to an affordable, reliable high-speed internet connection,” said Dingell. “In the 21st century, access to the internet is essential— it connects people to jobs, education, health care, and many more necessary support systems for Americans. The approval of Michigan’s BEAD proposal bridges a gap in ensuring that every community, regardless of zip code or income, can benefit from the opportunities that broadband provides.” Federal funding for this program comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Dingell helped pass, and will help bring reliable internet access to unserved and underserved communities. With an additional $550 million in private-sector matching funds, Michigan’s total upcoming investment in high-speed internet infrastructure will reach $1.47 billion. Dingell has long worked to expand access to high-speed internet for all Americans. Earlier this year, Dingell reintroduced the bipartisan Facilitating DIGITAL Applications Act to help expedite broadband expansion.