HR 2474119th CongressIn Committee

Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act

Introduced: Mar 27, 2025

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act would require the Comptroller General (GAO) to conduct a formal study on whether the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) can incorporate low-orbit (LEO) satellite technology into its broadband projects. The study, due within 90 days of enactment, would examine whether LEO satellite services can be used for business purposes, assess any economic development growth in areas that have used LEO satellites for business, and analyze the cost-effectiveness of deploying broadband satellites for economic development. The bill does not authorize funding or create new programs; it directs a government-wide evaluation to inform future policy decisions about expanding broadband access in Appalachia.

Key Points

1The GAO must complete and submit the study within 90 days after enactment of the bill.
2The study assesses the capability of the Appalachian Regional Commission to include low-orbit satellites in its broadband initiatives.
3Specific requirements include evaluating: (1) the capacity of LEO satellite services for business use, (2) economic development growth in areas that have used LEO satellites for businesses, and (3) the cost-effectiveness of implementing broadband satellites for economic development.
4The bill is titled the “Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act” and directs a GAO study rather than creating new programs or funding.
5Sponsor and status: Introduced in the House (March 27, 2025) and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure; sponsor listed as Mr. Taylor (no other sponsor information provided).

Impact Areas

Primary group/area affected: Appalachian Regional Commission, rural communities in the Appalachi an region, and broadband service providers contemplating or delivering services there.Secondary group/area affected: Local and state economic development agencies, policymakers evaluating broadband strategies, and potential satellite service vendors.Additional impacts: The study could shape future policy or legislative action by identifying whether LEO satellite solutions are viable and cost-effective for regional economic development, potentially influencing funding priorities or pilot programs if the ARC pursues satellite-based broadband projects.

Generated by gpt-5-nano on Nov 18, 2025