WASHINGTON — The House of Representatives passed legislation Tuesday directing a federal study on whether satellite technology can expand broadband access and spur economic development in Appalachia.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Dave Taylor, R-Ohio, cleared the chamber by voice vote. Taylor represents a district that includes large rural stretches of southern Ohio where internet access remains limited.
“For too long, rural communities like mine in rural southern Ohio have been left behind the modern economy, all because they lack sufficient access to the internet,” Taylor said. “By embracing innovative technologies like satellite broadband, businesses across Appalachia will be able to see massive economic growth across our region. I’m proud to see the House pass my bill today to finally connect Buckeye families and businesses to the opportunities they need to thrive.”
H.R. 2474, the Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act, would require the Government Accountability Office to study the capabilities of satellites for use by the Appalachian Regional Commission in its economic development projects. The study would evaluate whether satellites can meet the broadband needs of rural businesses, examine economic growth in areas already using satellite service and analyze the cost-effectiveness of the approach.
If the study yields favorable findings, the measure would let rural businesses and communities in the Appalachian region pursue broadband funding through the commission using the new satellite technologies.
Large swaths of Ohio’s 2nd Congressional District lack sufficient broadband, limiting residents’ ability to participate in the broader economy and adapt to new technologies. Although fiber optic cables have been the dominant approach, extending them across the rugged terrain of southern Ohio has proven costly and difficult.
A 2024 study identified three counties in Taylor’s district among the top 150 most off-the-grid locations in the United States. Satellites could circumvent those topographical barriers to deliver adequate broadband service.
The Appalachian Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership that works with communities across 13 states to promote self-sustaining economic development and improve quality of life.
Taylor introduced the bill on March 27, 2025. It passed the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on Jan. 21, 2026, also by voice vote.
