Press Releases

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (NY-19) today announced he is cosponsoring the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act. This bill was authored by U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (MO-6), Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure.

The E-BRIDGE Act removes hurdles to access Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants for broadband projects. It also gives communities more flexibility to comply with non-federal cost sharing requirements on these projects.

Rep. Molinaro said, “Gaps in internet connectivity are holding us back. That’s why I’m working to expand internet access in rural communities by backing the E-BRIDGE Act. This bill is going to eliminate barriers to bring more broadband projects online.”

Tioga County Legislative Chair, Martha Sauerbrey said, “Tioga County residents are experiencing a digital divide. Our families, businesses, and schools need a reliable internet connection to thrive and compete. We are grateful that Congressman Molinaro recognizes the importance of rural internet connectivity and applaud him for leading this effort to bring broadband projects to rural communities.”

By helping increase the reach of broadband in rural and economically distressed communities, the E-BRIDGE Act will help:

• Attract new businesses and support current businesses.
• Strengthen healthcare systems and the delivery of medical care to vulnerable populations.
• Lay the groundwork for economic recovery in rural areas.
• Better prepare communities for future disasters or epidemics.

As a member of the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure, Rep. Molinaro has been working to expand broadband in local rural communities and recently voted for bipartisan legislation that will streamline new infrastructure projects, including broadband projects.