To operationalize these initiatives, the Wyoming business council is mandated to provide grants to local governments for broadband access, with caps set at $20,000 per grant. Additionally, the bill allocates $2 million specifically for health care providers to acquire telehealth equipment and support outreach and education efforts, improving care delivery in remote or underserved communities. This aspect of the bill seeks to enhance the state's telehealth capabilities, which have become increasingly critical in recent years.
Summary
House Bill 0068 focuses on enhancing broadband and telehealth access in Wyoming. The bill proposes the establishment of a funding program that utilizes American Rescue Plan Act funds to support local governmental entities in developing broadband internet access projects. It aims to facilitate the installation of public wireless internet access points in areas that currently lack sufficient broadband service, particularly targeting underserved and unserved areas.
Contention
Notable points of contention may stem from the prioritization of projects based on community needs and economic considerations. The bill mandates that grants should favor projects located in economically disadvantaged areas, which could lead to debates on the distribution of funds and the efficacy of access projects. Furthermore, the provision that each local government may only receive grants for projects without overlapping community wireless access could also present challenges in execution.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Urging The Executive Office On Aging To Work In Concert With The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office, Hawaii Broadband Hui, And Aarp Hawaii, To Develop A Standard Training Workshop For Kupuna And Caregivers On How To Select And Purchase Appropriate Broadband Connectivity Equipment And Audio-visual Equipment Such As Tablets, And How To Operate Equipment To Access Telehealth Services.
Urging The Executive Office On Aging To Work In Concert With The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office, Hawaii Broadband Hui, And Aarp Hawaii, To Develop A Standard Training Workshop For Kupuna And Caregivers On How To Select And Purchase Appropriate Broadband Connectivity Equipment And Audio-visual Equipment Such As Tablets, And How To Operate Equipment To Access Telehealth Services.