October 08, 2021

Rep. Gallego Announces Help for Local Schools, Libraries to Boost Broadband

PHOENIX, AZ– Today, Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) announced that schools and libraries can apply for additional funding from the American Rescue Plan to increase broadband services now through October 13th. Local schools and libraries can learn more about eligibility and apply HERE.

"In today's world, reliable broadband is essential for learning," said Rep. Gallego. "This fund supports everything from Wi-Fi hotspots to devices which many low-income school districts had to buy for the first time during the pandemic for distance learning. Though schools are now back in person, the digital evolution of the classroom will continue to match the digital evolution of the modern economy. I strongly encourage local schools and libraries to take advantage of this program to provide our students with the tools they need for success."

Arizona already applied for $200,700,000 from the Emergency Connectivity Fund during the first application filing period this summer. The FCC expects to grant up to the full request pending a final review of those applications. Now, due to high interest in the program and additional funding still available, the FCC has opened a second application filing window for STATE to request additional funds now through October 13th.

Funding for the Emergency Connectivity Fund was made possible by the American Rescue Plan Rep. Gallego helped pass earlier this year.

Click here to learn more about the FCC's Emergency Connectivity Fund.

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Rep. Ruben Gallego is a Marine Corps combat veteran who served in Iraq. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Natural Resources Committee, and the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.