Senate Bill Would Explore Satellite Broadband Expansion Across Appalachia

WASHINGTON, May 11, 2026 – Legislation introduced Thursday would require a federal commission to study the potential role of satellite broadband in expanding internet access across rural Appalachia.

The Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act, introduced by Sen. Jon Husted , R-Ohio, and Angela Alsobrooks , D-Md., would require the Appalachian Regional Commission to study how satellite broadband could be incorporated into future broadband projects across the region.

The proposal builds on momentum already developing in the House, which passed companion legislation by unanimous voice vote in March.

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