LAST ACRE Act of 2023 Linking Access to Spur Technology for Agriculture Connectivity in Rural Environments Act of 2023
The enactment of SB2542 is expected to significantly impact the availability of reliable broadband connectivity in rural areas. By prioritizing applications from unserved land in remote regions, the bill seeks to bridge the digital divide in agricultural sectors, allowing producers to utilize modern precision agriculture technologies that rely on robust internet services. This access could lead to improved efficiency in agricultural practices, supporting sustainable farming and economic growth in rural communities.
SB2542, known as the Last Acre Act of 2023, aims to enhance broadband access in rural areas, especially focusing on agricultural producers who are often underserved or unserved. This legislation amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 by establishing a Last Acre Program to provide grants and loans to covered providers for delivering high-speed internet across agricultural land. The bill defines several crucial terms, including 'unserved' and 'underserved,' which guide the allocation of resources to ensure connectivity for agricultural purposes.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB2542 may arise from the distribution of funds and the criteria established for the covered providers. Some stakeholders might argue that the prioritization could favor larger telecom companies over local providers, potentially hindering fair competition. Additionally, there is concern regarding the compliance requirements related to cybersecurity and operational capability, which some smaller providers may find challenging to meet. These factors could create disparities in how effectively the program addresses the needs of rural agricultural producers.