February 12, 2018
Background: The Trump administration today rolled out a proposal for $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments — $200 billion of which would come from the federal government, offset through budget cuts. It would also carve out $50 billion for rural infrastructure projects and revamp federal permitting.
This statement can be attributed to USTelecom CEO Jonathan Spalter:
Closing the digital divide, particularly in our nation’s most difficult to reach rural areas, requires dedicated and adequate capital – both financial and political. Broadband providers have invested more than $1.6 trillion over the past 20 years to connect our communities, but significant, direct support from the federal government is critical to bringing broadband’s benefits to all. USTelecom is determined to work with Congress and the Administration on getting our 21st century infrastructure priorities right, including dedicated funding to ensure broadband connectivity for all Americans.”