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Lifelong Gregg County resident Michael Johnson recalls the day his family finally had running water in their home. However, one thing he and many others in his area are still waiting for is reliable, high-speed internet. Like approximately 7 million other Texans, Johnson is among those who lack consistent access to broadband internet.

East Texas, where Johnson resides, has significantly less internet access compared to other regions in the state. To combat this issue, there is the potential for nearly billion in state and federal funding that could be used to build high-speed internet networks in rural parts of Texas.

Access to the internet is crucial for employment, education, and healthcare, and it is more important than ever before. Unfortunately, about 23% of Texans still do not have the necessary high-speed access to get online, according to the Texas Broadband Development Office.

To address this disparity, state and local leaders are working to secure federal and state funding. The Texas Comptroller’s Office reports that the Broadband Development Office will oversee approximately .3 billion from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for high-speed internet expansion. This legislation has allocated a total of .5 billion nationwide to improve broadband equity, access, and deployment.

While the funding presents an opportunity to connect more households like the Johnsons, it may prove challenging to distribute the resources effectively to rural regions. Nonetheless, progress is being made to bridge the digital divide experienced by rural Texans.

Expanding internet access would greatly benefit individuals like Michael and Sheila Johnson, who rely on a cellular-based solution for their wireless internet service. By bringing reliable and high-speed internet to rural areas, residents can access online opportunities for education, job applications, and other essential online services.

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