President Joe Biden speaks during an event about high speed internet infrastructure, in the East Room of the White House, Monday, June 26, 2023, in Washington. Southwestern New Mexico is poised to become a center of economic vitality, according to Christie Ann Harvey, but it might not reach its full potential without better internet service.
“Let us agree: In the 21st century, in America, high-speed internet is not a luxury; it is a necessity,” Harris said. The states' initial proposals must identify unserved locations that aren’t already receiving money from other broadband programs. They must give also give local nonprofits, internet service providers and governments to suggest other locations in need of improved services.
During Monday's announcement, Vice President Harris described a visit to Sunset, Louisiana, a town of about 3,000 people near Lafayette where nearly 40% of households lack reliable high-speed internet. She recalled meeting people who can't apply for remote work and can't start or grow a small business. She said she met with students who, during the pandemic, had to sit in the parking lot of a local library to submit their homework.