CRAMER: USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCES DISTANCE LEARNING AND TELEMEDICINE GRANT PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY EXPANSION

Date: January 16, 2018

Contact: Jason.stverak@mail.house.gov

Recording: Audio

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is revising its regulations which will expand eligibility for and simplify the administration of the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant program.  These changes will allow organizations holding rural telecommunications or electric program loans eligibility to apply for a Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant. In addition, DLT grants can be used to construct or improve broadband transmission facilities. 

“North Dakota is an example for the rest of the nation as nearly 90% of the state is served by high speed broadband internet.   This achievement was made possible by the hard work and foresight of public and private entities working together to advance North Dakota’s interests,” said Cramer.  “These USDA grant reforms ensure our state’s businesses have a regulatory environment which allows them to continue to provide fantastic service to meet the growing demands of our state’s economy.” 

All program changes were effective Dec. 27, 2017. Regulatory reform is one of the cornerstones of USDA’s strategies for creating a culture of consistent, efficient service to customers, while reducing burdens and improving efficiency.

This regulation improvement is one of 14 regulations USDA Rural Development has identified for revision or elimination since Jan. 20, 2017.

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