What is the fundamental issue?
REALTORS® support a comprehensive national policy to stimulate the deployment of broadband, increase data speeds and reduce broadband prices particularly in underserved communities across the U.S.
I am a real estate professional. What does this mean for my business?
“Broadband,” or high-speed internet access, can be provided through cable, telephone wireline, or wireless technologies. While Congress has provided $78 billion to expand broadband internet since 2020, millions of Americans continue to lack basic connectivity. A national broadband policy will help promote economic growth, create jobs, and expand investment opportunities for all real estate markets and communities across the nation.
NAR Policy:
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Every American should have access to a high-speed, world-class communications infrastructure;
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High-capacity broadband connectivity should be affordable and widely accessible; and
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A variety of options should be considered to encourage quality broadband deployment and adoption including action by the public and private sector.
Legislative/Regulatory Status/Outlook
Since 2020, Congress and the Administration have taken significant steps to bridge the "digital divide" between those who have access to high-speed internet (broadband) and those who do not. Here are the four major laws:
- The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58; Nov. 15, 2021]), which provides $65 billion for broadband programs at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA);
- The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (P.L. 117-2; March 11, 2021), which provides $7 billion for broadband programs at the FCC;
- The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260; Dec. 27, 2020), which provides $6 billion for broadband programs at the FCC, NTIA, and USDA; and
- The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (P.L. 116-136; March 27, 2020), which provides $100 million for broadband programs at the USDA.
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