Reliable Internet Is Essential For Work, Education
by District #78 State Representative Tim O’Brien
NOVEMBER, 2021
 Daily life can be difficult without a high-quality internet connection. Whether running a business, taking courses online, meeting virtually with your doctor or communicating with family, unreliable broadband can be a huge hindrance.
In Indiana, 12% of residents lack adequate broadband access and nearly half live in areas with only one internet provider, according to a Federal Communications Commission report. To close this digital divide, I sponsored a law to increase high-speed broadband access to underserved Hoosiers. Lawmakers allocated $270 million to create the Indiana Connectivity Program to determine broadband needs and assist with the expense of extending service.
Those without a quality internet connection can report their address and information using the Next Level Connections portal at in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp or by calling 833-639-8522 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET). To be eligible for assistance, a location must experience speeds of less than 25 Mbps (download) and 3 Mbps (upload).
Internet providers will review service requests and submit bids to extend broadband to those areas. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs will evaluate bids and award funding.
Many Hoosier are still without reliable internet, putting them at a disadvantage when it comes to school or work. An FCC study shows 99% of households in Vanderburgh County and 82% of households in Warrick County could sign up for broadband internet, but that doesn’t account for those experiencing slow speeds. Only 52% in Vanderburgh County actually use internet services in their homes and 38% in Warrick County are connected.
To help boost internet connections in your area, visit in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp to report slow speeds and apply for assistance.
