[20200803]IF11262_美国农业部的重新连接宽带试点计划.pdf

https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated August 3, 2020USDAs ReConnect Broadband Pilot ProgramCongress established the Rural e-Connectivity Pilot Program (also known as ReConnect) in the FY2018 consolidated appropriations act. ReConnect provides loan and grant funding to eligible entities to deploy broadband internet service in eligible rural areas. The U.S. Department of Agricultures Rural Utilities Service (RUS) administers ReConnect. Program Authority and Funding In the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (P.L. 115-141, Division B, 779), Congress provided $600 million for the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a new broadband loan and grant pilot program under the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 (7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.). Congress directed that, to receive assistance, projects must serve rural areas where at least 90% of households lack “sufficient access to broadband”speeds of at least 10 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 1 Mbps upload (known as 10/1 Mbps), to be redetermined, as necessary, by the Secretary of Agriculture. Congress also directed that ReConnect assistance not overbuild or duplicate prior broadband expansion efforts financed by RUS. Congress subsequently p