CRAMER DISCUSSES TELEMEDICINE, PRECISION AG IN RURAL AMERICA DURING COMMITTEE HEARING

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer spoke this week at the Energy and Commerce Communications and Technology Subcommittee hearing, “Realizing the Benefits of Rural Broadband: Challenges and Solutions.” Justin Forde, a North Dakotan who works as Senior Director of Government Relations at Midco, spoke at the hearing as a witness. Midco is a telecomm company that provides services across North Dakota and the upper Midwest.

The purpose of the hearing was to address access to high speed internet through a variety of technologies including fiber, coaxial cable, mobile or fixed wireless, or satellite. The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee oversees the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Cramer has used his position on the Committee to urge responsible and effective funding for the Universal Service Fund, which helps boost rural broadband investment. His letter to the FCC garnered the support of 130 Members in the House.

“Access to high quality, affordable broadband continues to transform the economy of rural America, particularly through telemedicine and precision ag,” said Cramer. “I am encouraged by the outcome of this hearing and look forward to advancing North Dakota’s ability to facilitate many of the initiatives discussed.”      

Cramer, a founding co-chair of the House Rural Broadband Caucus, has made addressing the digital divide a top priority in Congress. During the hearing Cramer commended the panel as great collaborators among competitors as they represent a ubiquitous network who can provide real solutions to expanding broadband.  

Forde commended Cramer’s leadership in communication and technology. He said, “It was a honor to represent North Dakota, and the people of the upper great plains before Congress. Midco is focused on expanding its service to unserved communities. There are challenges and high costs associated with building fiber in some rural communities, due to difficult terrain or sparse population. We look forward to working with Congressman Cramer to bring broadband to more people in rural areas.”

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