NEW JERSEY (RFD-TV) — Rural communities now have a new way to track progress on broadband expansion. Connected Nation has launched an interactive dashboard that enables residents to view how their states plan to utilize federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program funding.
Colin Reilly with Connected Nation joined RFD-TV News on Thursday’s Market Day Report to explain how the tool works and why it’s an important step in bridging the digital divide. Reilly highlighted a recent Connected Nation report showing that nearly one-third of rural households are considered “internet insecure” — lacking reliable or affordable high-speed internet at home.
The new BEAD tracker breaks down how each state intends to use its allocated federal dollars to improve broadband access, providing a transparent view of funding plans and progress. According to Reilly, the goal is to help ensure rural Americans have the same opportunities for connectivity as their urban counterparts.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today unveiled a bold plan to protect the nation’s prime farm and ranchland from the rapid spread of data centers.
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How the Public Trust Doctrine Threatens Agricultural Property Rights
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AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
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