Rural Internet Improvement Act of 2023

The Rural Internet Improvement Act of 2023 aims to streamline federal efforts to expand high-speed internet in rural communities by merging the USDA’s "ReConnect" pilot program into the department’s permanent rural broadband loan and grant system. To ensure funding reaches the most underserved locations, the bill requires that at least 90% of households in a project area lack sufficient broadband access before a provider can receive federal support. Additionally, the legislation improves the accuracy of service maps and requires better coordination between federal agencies to prevent the duplication of broadband projects.