AARP is Fighting For High-Speed Internet Access for All

AARP High-Speed Internet Access

As a retired NASA engineer and technology enthusiast, Ron Schlagheck is grateful for a fast Internet connection at his rural home near Winchester, Tenn.

HIGHLIGHTS

“Broadband helps keep people socially connected, but it also enables access to healthcare services, entertainment, distance learning, telehealth, and other activities that contribute to successful aging.”

AARP Illinois played a key role in the development and adoption of legislation signed on Aug. 13 by Gov. Bruce Rauner that creates a task force to explore ways to expand broadband access.

In New Mexico, Gov. Susana Martinez last year signed two AARP New Mexico-backed bills designed to extend high speed Internet access to rural and underserved areas of the state. And this year, Martinez signed more Internet-access legislation that AARP New Mexico worked to pass, including a measure to bring broadband to public, tribal and school libraries.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam signed an AARP Tennessee-backed bill in 2017 allowing electric cooperatives to provide broadband and video service and funded the effort with $45 million in grants and tax credits.

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