Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the USDA is making funding available to bring a significant expansion of access to high speed internet., health care and educational services to millions of Americans. Center for Rural Affairs Policy Director Johnathan Hladik says he’s glad the USDA is providing $1.15 billion for getting more hi speed internet access for Rural Americans where it’s greatly wanted and needed.

He says the biggest challenge of getting high speed internet access in Nebraska is the distance it has to travel to make sure as many users can get connected as possible.

USDA will begin receiving applications for the loans and grants on November 24. Hladik says because there are so many government programs out there it’s up to the USDA to provide assistance to those applying for the aid.

This hi speed internet, health care and educational funding is being offered through the ReConnect Program.