Harold Rogers Emphasizes The Importance Of Expanding High-Speed Broadband To Revitalize Rural America

During Thursday’s House Appropriations Committee hearing, Rep. Harold Rogers (R-KY) spoke about expanding high-speed broadband access.

Transcript

00:00The fiscal year 26 budget request comes at a time of continued fiscal pressure.

00:09We must ensure every American taxpayer dollar is used efficiently

00:14and continue to work to reduce duplication across agencies and throughout the government.

00:22The Department of Commerce's budget request totals $8.4 billion,

00:27a $1.8 billion or 17% decrease from the current level.

00:37The budget request includes funding for targeted investments in tools to address unfair trade practices

00:46and emphasizes important initiatives such as American manufacturing and trade enforcement.

00:54Specifically, it includes a 50% increase for the Bureau of Industry and Security

01:04to counter threats from China and protect America's technological competitiveness.

01:12The budget request also includes a 20% increase for the Census Bureau

01:17to continue providing reliable statistics.

01:23Overall, the Department of Commerce is charged with protecting supply chain security,

01:29economic growth and job creation, weather research and response,

01:35and economic data analysis,

01:38all keystones imperative to American prosperity.

01:42On the international front, the Department plays an important role

01:47in protecting our industries from one-sided trade practices

01:52and strengthens supply chains that are key to ensuring our economic security

01:58and global leadership.

02:01I've always been a big supporter of the Department of Commerce.

02:13The Department's core initiatives are vital to small-town economies across the country,

02:21including my district in eastern Kentucky.

02:23One of the most critical components of revitalizing rural America

02:29is expanding access to high-speed, reliable broadband.

02:34In far too many places, a lack of broadband access is not just an inconvenience.

02:42It's a barrier to education, job creation, entrepreneurship, and even basic health care.

02:50From EDA's emphasis on job creation and expanding economic opportunity

02:58to NOAA's local weather forecast offices that work around the clock

03:03to send out alerts during times of severe weather,

03:09the Department's wide-ranging responsibility requires clear prioritization and accountability.

03:16We look forward to hearing from you, Mr. Secretary,

03:21on how this budget request furthers our shared goals

03:25of reducing wasteful spending, ensuring global competitiveness,

03:31expanding broadband, and driving economic development.

03:36Let me now recognize by a ranking member of the subcommittee, Ms. May.