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PSC Initiates Grant Program to Help Bring Broadband to Libraries & Schools

PSC Initiates Grant Program to Help Bring Broadband to Libraries & Schools

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 PSC Initiates Grant Program to help Bring Broadband to Libraries & Schools

Lincoln, May 20, 2020 – The Nebraska Public Service Commission
(PSC) has issued an Order establishing the E-Rate Special
Construction State Matching Grant Program as a way to help
facilitate the build-out of new fiber to Nebraska libraries and schools.

The State program is designed to maximize federal support through
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), E-Rate Special
Construction Program, which provides funding for broadband
connections in libraries and schools across the country.

“Establishing a state effort that would provide a match for the federal
E-Rate program was part of the recommendations of the Rural
Broadband Task Force
,” said Commission Chair and Task Force
member Mary Ridder. “Libraries and schools are often technology
hubs for rural communities. We are excited to be able to help
incentivize new fiber construction to these vital public institutions.”

The E-Rate Special Construction State Matching Grant Program
(NUSF-117) will make available one million dollars in support to be
allocated over the four years of the program to applicants approved
by both the state and federal programs.

Libraries and schools that are not currently fiber-connected and
interested in applying for the State Matching Grant Program must
meet the qualifications and complete the application contained in
the Order (NUSF 117) issued by the PSC. Applications must be
submitted by mid-December, with the PSC issuing notices of
approval by mid-January.

Commissioner Ridder said, “We encourage any libraries and schools
that lack a fiber connection to consider participating in this effort as
we work to provide broadband to the unserved and underserved in
our state.” ###

Contact:
Deb Collins- Media & Communications Mgr.
(402) 471-0226
deb.collins@nebraska.gov

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