ARLINGTON, Va. – National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) CEO Jim Matheson today issued the following statement on the confirmation of Olivia Trusty to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
“Access to rural broadband is a necessity for families and businesses across the U.S.,” said Matheson. “Electric co-ops across the country are answering the call and bringing high speed internet to their local communities. We look forward to working with Commissioner Trusty to bridge the digital divide in rural America. With broad experience in telecommunications policy, Commissioner Trusty will bring a well-rounded perspective to the Commission, and we look forward to working with her to ensure that all Americans have access to lasting and scalable broadband service.”
Electric co-ops play a key role in bridging the digital divide. More than 200 electric cooperatives across the country are involved in bringing broadband to their communities, fostering economic development and unlocking new opportunities in rural America. The FCC is an important partner in helping electric co-ops bridge the digital divide.
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association is the national trade association representing nearly 900 local electric cooperatives, including over 200 co-ops involved in bringing reliable broadband service to their communities. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric cooperatives in broadband play a crucial role in closing the digital divide by connecting rural America to affordable high-speed internet service. As local businesses built by the consumers they serve, electric co-ops in broadband have meaningful ties to rural America and empower their communities with new ways to live, learn and earn.
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