Broadband legislation to be introduced by Ohio senator

By: Susan Tebben - July 1, 2020 2:17 pm

Ohio U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown. Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images.

One of Ohio’s U.S. Senators is a cosponsor on legislation to allow broadband access to those laid off or furloughed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sen. Sherrod Brown and Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden plan to introduce the “Emergency Broadband Connections Act” to create a $50 credit meant for monthly internet service, and require service providers to provide service at reduced prices.

The proposed legislation would also trigger eligibility for the benefit based on qualification for the National School Lunch Program, federal Pell Grants, or the Lifeline program.

The announcement about the proposed legislation also said Brown is looking into legislation to build the “infrastructure necessary to make broadband services available to residents.”

No timeline was given for the introduction of the legislation.

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Susan Tebben

Susan Tebben is an award-winning journalist with a decade of experience covering Ohio news, including courts and crime, Appalachian social issues, government, education, diversity and culture. She has worked for The Newark Advocate, The Glasgow (KY) Daily Times, The Athens Messenger, and WOUB Public Media. She has also had work featured on National Public Radio.