Farm Bill Fight Could Shape Rural Broadband

Illinois has received federal approval for its Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment plan, with funding awaiting one final grant-processing step before release. Local officials say the program could significantly improve internet access for rural residents, including those in Bond County. Separately, Congress’s stalled farm bill could shape the future of rural broadband nationwide because it governs the USDA’s ReConnect program, which has provided more than $4.4 billion in loans and grants since 2018. The House proposal would extend ReConnect funding through 2031, but its proposed speed and eligibility standards have raised concerns about whether the program would support sufficiently robust service. The Senate Agriculture Committee’s failure to advance its version reflects broader disputes over the farm bill, particularly funding for food assistance.