East Arizona News

Tribal communities left out in the cold when it comes to high-speed internet access would have access through newly introduced legislation, putting schools and businesses on an even playing field.

Sen. Martha McSally of Arizona is among those introducing the Tribal Connect Act, which would improve broadband connectivity in state tribal lands. A McSally press release reported the bipartisan bill would provide access to the Federal Communication Commission’s schools and libraries universal service support program. The $4 billion program offers discounts to schools and libraries on high-speed internet.

The need for access to high-speed internet is particularly critical as many schools resort to virtual learning formats amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Impacts are also critical for telehealth which has seen a surge in recent months along with online job training as the unemployed seek different avenues back into the workforce. The press release reported too many of the Native American communities live without consistent access to those services.

The Act would establish a $100 million pilot program to invest in communities without libraries and allow tribal colleges and universities to be eligible for government funding.