The Center for Rural Affairs is backing LB 549, a measure to provide better mapping for broadband access. Rural Affairs Policy Director Jonathan Hladik says the current broadband maps don’t accurately show where access to broadband is needed and LB 549 would correct that.
He says the bill, sponsored by State Senator Tom Brandt, would improve broadband mapping by bringing it down to the parcel level and then using the maps to show where the service is needed.
Hladik says for rural communities, farmers and ranchers and small businesses to thrive economically, having broadband access is a necessity.
He says the bill has had its initial hearing in committee and is awaiting further action. Hladik says if they aren’t successful getting the measure through this session they’ll work with the Rural Broadband Task Force to bring it back next session.
