Rural internet access depends on state, study shows

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Rural internet access depends on state, study shows

Fri, 11/06/2020 - 02:37
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OKLAHOMA CITY – With workplaces and schools online to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many people are relying on a strong internet connection. But in some states, less than 50% of rural households have access to broadband, data from the Federal Communications Commission shows. Oklahoma State University and Purdue University researchers found some government policies can either increase or inhibit broadband availability in rural areas. The researchers found state funding and establishing a state broadband office can improve broadband access in rural areas. Around 30 states have a state broadband office with full-time employees, and half of all states have line items in their budgets for broadband funding. The study found rural areas saw an increase of broadband availability from 24% in 2012, when many states began implementing policies, to 71% in 2018. But 19 states, including Missouri, Nebraska and Texas, restrict whether cities and municipalities can have their own broadband…

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