The Catskill Chronicle

NEW YORK STATE (April 28, 2013) – Congressman Chris Gibson (NY-19) announced on Friday the introduction of legislation with Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR), a fellow No Labels member, to reauthorize the RUS Broadband Loan and Grant Program.

In addition, the legislation, H.R. 1639, creates a combination loan-grant option, and seeks to improve the program to ensure funding is targeted to the areas that have the most need.

“This legislation improves the program by incorporating the feedback I received from providers, local officials, and consumers at two district broadband symposiums. In addition, a combination grant-loan program could further the ability of underserved areas to gain the resources they need to expand.  Broadband access is critical to the ability of our small businesses and family farms to be economically competitive as well as provide essential services to local residents,” said Congressman Gibson. “As I did last year, I will be working to include this program and these improvements in the Farm Bill that we are writing in the House Agriculture Committee.”

H.R. 1639 reauthorizes the RUS Broadband Loan and Grant program, designating not less than 70% of the funding for low-interest loans to expand broadband services. Additionally, the legislation allows providers to submit information regarding broadband they already offer in an area being proposed for an RUS Loan, helping to make certain funding is prioritized to those areas with no available service provider.

In 2011, Congressman Gibson’s amendment saved the RUS Broadband loan program from elimination.