Husted leads effort to expand broadband access in rural Ohio

“It is hard to believe that in 2026, far too many Ohioans still lack access to reliable internet, impacting how people learn, work or complete training programs.” WASHINGTON – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) joined Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) in introducing the Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act. This bill would increase access to broadband for rural communities across Appalachia. Rep. Dave Taylor (R-Ohio) introduced the companion bill to the Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act in the House of Representatives. The bill passed the House on March 24, 2026, by unanimous voice vote. “It is hard to believe that in 2026, far too many Ohioans still lack access to reliable internet, impacting how people learn, work or complete training programs. As Lt.Governor, I worked to form and lead the BroadbandOhio Office, which has made significant progress in bringing more people online. Working alongside our state and local partners, as well as the private sector, will help get the job done. I applaudRep. Taylor’s leadership on this issue in the House, and I look forward to getting this done for Ohio in the Senate,” said Husted. “Access to broadband internet is critical for accessing health care, paying your bills,and staying connected to friends, family, and the world. I am so proud to be partnering with Senator Husted to introduce the Expanding Appalachia’s BroadbandAccess Act to ensure Marylanders in the most rural parts of our state can get and stay connected,” said Alsobrooks. “Southern Ohio has long been a broadband desert, with our rural communities being left behind in an ever-changing and advancing economy. This bill will create an opportunity to demonstrate that embracing innovative technologies like satellite broadband could lead to massive opportunities for growth in southern Ohio. The Appalachian Regional Commission currently provides vital funding and services to Ohioans, and the inclusion of expanded broadband technologies in their programs would be life changing. It is past time to connect our communities to the modern economy after being held back for decades,” said Taylor. More than 300,000 households in Ohio—representing nearly 1 million Ohioans—still lack access to broadband service. Limited connectivity makes it harder for students to complete online homework and for adults to access job opportunities, training programs and telehealth services. This bill would direct a study to be conducted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office on the capabilities of satellites to be used by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)for economic development. This study will measure the capabilities of satellites for ruralbusiness services and assess whether or not it can meet business’ needs. If this study shows that satellites are an effective method of increasing rural broadband, this bill would allow rural businesses and communities to obtain broadband funding through ARC. The full bill is available here .