The FBA proudly supports Senator Roger Marshall’s, M.D., reintroduction of the bipartisan Reconnecting Rural America Act
The Fiber Broadband Association proudly supports Senator Roger Marshall’s, M.D., reintroduction of the bipartisan Reconnecting Rural America Act and was honored to welcome his remarks at Fiber Connect. Senator Marshall underscored the importance of future-proof fiber networks, the critical role broadband plays in rural health care, education, and agriculture, and the tireless work of the fiber broadband industry turning policy into progress. Read below for FBA’s statement of support and quotes from Senator Marshall during his address.
FBA Statement of Support
“The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) commends Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) for reintroducing the Reconnecting Rural America Act in the U.S. Senate. This critical legislation represents another important step toward closing the digital divide and expanding access to symmetric, high-speed, future-proof broadband networks in rural communities across the country. By clarifying how the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers grants and loans under the ReConnect program, the bill ensures that federal investments are used effectively and efficiently to deliver fast, reliable, and scalable broadband to unserved and underserved areas. FBA applauds this bipartisan commitment to strengthening America’s broadband infrastructure and ensuring that every household, business, and community has the connectivity needed to thrive in today’s digital economy.” – Gary Bolton, CEO, Fiber Broadband Association
Remarks from Senator Roger Marshall, M.D.
“It’s an honor to address such a dedicated group of professionals who are the backbone of our nation’s broadband future. ISPs and network operators, fiber construction teams, local and state fiber network employees, and the innovative vendors who make it all possible. You’re the ones turning policy into progress, and I appreciate the chance to connect with you today.”
“Just last week, we reintroduced the Reconnecting Rural America Act to strengthen USDA’s ReConnect Loan and Grant Program to expand high-speed broadband in rural communities. This bill is about making sure the infrastructure is there—not just for today, but for decades to come. We’re laying the foundation for rural communities to compete, grow, and thrive in this modern economy, and that means investing in technology that will stand the test of time.”
“Fiber is what makes our broadband future-proof. It’s strong, it’s fast, and it’s reliable—no matter the weather or the challenges of the environment. Fiber ensures that when Kansans log on to work, study, or connect with loved ones, their connection is strong and secure. This past summer, our signature legislation—the one big, beautiful bill, we call it—put in place powerful tax and investment incentives to spur fiber expansion across the country. I remember that even just this past year, I sat down with officials from HCI and New Cambria—a community of just over 100 people, but it’s got a great restaurant. They told me about their mission to bring fiber broadband to every home in town.”
“As a physician who managed a rural hospital, I witnessed firsthand how important a strong internet connection was to providing our services, as well as telehealth. And in agriculture, precision ag—which allows us to grow more with less—requires volumes of data points, which only happens with quality broadband. The impact on students, farmers, and small businesses alike is clear: broadband is essential to making America healthy again. You’ve turned federal dollars into deployed cables, operational networks, and empowered lives. And for that, you all deserve every bit of recognition we can give you.”
“Looking ahead, I’m incredibly hopeful for what we can achieve together. With BEAD funds rolling out and programs like the Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure reducing costs for last-mile connections, we’re on track to connect millions more by 2030. Imagine a future where every American—no matter how remote—has reliable high-speed internet, unlocking telemedicine for rural families, remote learning for students, and e-commerce for small businesses.”