Gov. Haslam plans $45 million to bring broadband to rural TN

Broadband Breakfast Insight: Following up on the example of neighboring Kentucky, and other states, such as New York, Tennessee is engaging in and extensive broadband plan of its own – but with a twist. This program is primarily funded through tax credits.

Gov. Bill Haslam announced a $45 million plan Thursday to bring broadband access to rural Tennesseans. The Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act will give $45 million in tax credits and grants for service providers who help bring broadband access to homes

Nashville, Tenn. — Gov. Bill Haslam announced a $45 million plan Thursday to bring broadband access to rural Tennesseans.

The Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act will give $45 million in tax credits and grants for service providers who help bring broadband access to homes and businesses. According to the governor’s office, Tennessee ranks 29th in the county for broadband access. It said 34 percent of rural Tennessee residents lack access meeting minimum standards.

“From the farmer and the accountant in West Tennessee whose businesses are stifled, to the East Tennessee student who can’t complete her schoolwork at home, a lack of reliable internet access is preventing too many rural Tennesseans, rural communities and our state from reaching its full potential,” Haslam said. “While there is no one solution that can guarantee broadband accessibility to every single Tennessean, this legislation provides a reasonable, responsible path to improve access in a meaningful way through investment, deregulation and education.”

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Source: Gov. Haslam plans $45 million to bring broadband to rural TN