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Lawmakers press need for an updated Arkansas broadband plan and clearer mapping ahead of federal application windows
Summary
Legislators pressed USDA and state staff on the need for an up‑to‑date Arkansas broadband plan, better mapping (shape files) and ways to help small providers compete for federal funds. Panelists said state plan points boost federal scoring and mapping data remains limited, so local verification and partnerships are essential.
Arkansas lawmakers used a USDA briefing to press for clearer state guidance and stronger tools so local providers and smaller community applicants can compete for new federal broadband funds.
Legislators asked whether an Arkansas broadband plan would affect ReConnect scoring. "There are points in the application system if the state has a broadband plan that's been passed... you get more points," Bill Voigt said, adding that the state Department of Information Systems (DIS) publishes a broadband managers report but that USDA believes the…
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