Louisiana has become the first state in the United States to receive full federal approval for its plan to use over $1.35 billion in broadband internet funding, according to an announcement from U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA). The funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which Cassidy helped negotiate.
“I was proud to negotiate the infrastructure bill to secure this $1.36 BILLION in funding for Louisiana. Access to high-speed internet is essential for every small business owner, student, and worker. I am grateful to President Trump for his work to get it moving,” said Dr. Cassidy.
Cassidy advocated for a broadband formula during negotiations that would direct funds based on each state’s number of unserved and underserved residents, using updated coverage maps as a basis. The intention was to ensure that states like Louisiana with significant needs would benefit from the allocation process. A map showing broadband access in Louisiana before passage of the bill is available online.
The approval allows Louisiana to move forward with plans aimed at expanding high-speed internet access across regions that have previously lacked adequate service.
