U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski recently took part in a U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on expanding America’s broadband access through programs contained within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. During the hearing, Sen. Murkowski questioned U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary, Gina Raimondo, on Alaska-specific priorities, including middle mile and Tribal broadband infrastructure.
Sen. Murkowski expressed appreciation for Secretary Raimondo’s commitment while reiterating concern for Alaskans who see other parts of the U.S. receiving awards while accurate maps are developed and the anxiety that it may cause.
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act includes $65 billion in broadband funds divided between several programs or initiatives administered by the Department of Commerce. The largest of all these programs is for grants to states administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Agency (NTIA), but also includes programs for affordability, middle mile infrastructure, tribal connectivity, digital equity, and workforce training. The new law has received strong support from Alaskans across the state.
