Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) today hosted a virtual Fireside Chat with FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and local government leaders, tribal leaders, and key Virginia broadband stakeholders to discuss the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) work on rural broadband buildout, the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), and what the FCC is doing during to help communities during the Coronavirus pandemic.

“The Coronavirus pandemic has emphasized the need for high-speed broadband to rural America with students accessing educational material online, patients seeking medical care via reliable telehealth, and millions of Americans working from home,” Congressman Wittman said. Throughout the pandemic response, the FCC has initiated many key initiatives to help Americans cope.

“I want to thank Chairman Pai for participating in today’s Fireside Chat and his work on closing the digital divide for countless people across the country. I look forward to continue working with Chairman Pai and the FCC to ensure high-speed broadband access for all Americans. “

The purpose of this virtual Fireside Chat was to hear directly and inform local government leaders, tribal leaders, and key Virginia broadband stakeholders.

Congressman Wittman’s leadership on the issue of rural broadband dates back more than 20 years, and in Congress he has led key initiatives to expand broadband access through programs such as the First District Broadband Task Force and as a Co-Chair of the House Rural Broadband Caucus.

In March, Chairman Pai called on broadband and telephone service providers to promote connectivity for Americans impacted by the disruptions caused by the coronavirus. In order to ensure that Americans do not lose their broadband or telephone connectivity as a result of these exceptional circumstances, he asked them to take the Keep Americans Connected Pledge. In April, the FCC called on broadband and telephone service providers to promote connectivity for Americans impacted by the disruptions caused by the coronavirus.

In March, Congressman Wittman introduced the Serving Rural America Act (HR 6456), legislation to create a five-year pilot grant program at the FCC, authorizing $100 million a year for a total of $500 million over five years to expand broadband service to unserved areas of the country.

Click here for more information on the Serving Rural America Act.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he serves as the ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.