HELENA — Federal authorities have approved a state plan for addressing gaps in digital access, marking a key step toward continued efforts to expand high-speed internet development.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has signed off on Montana’s “Digital Opportunity Plan.”
Each state submitted a plan aimed at ensuring all people have access to the skills and technology they need to participate in the “digital economy.”
Leaders said the vast majority of Montana’s population is in groups that face barriers to digital opportunities, including those in rural areas, those 60 and older, and Native Americans.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte said in a statement that this approval allows Montana to compete for new federal funding.
“Lack of broadband access shouldn’t stand between Montanans and opportunities for a good-paying job, greater education, and affordable, high-quality health care,” Gov. Gianforte said. “One of the top priorities of our administration is to expand broadband access to underserved and unserved areas of Montana, while also addressing digital literacy. With this approval, Montana is now able to compete for additional federal funds to bridge the digital divide and open doors to greater opportunities.”
