Sinema Champions Bipartisan Bill Strengthening Rural Arizona’s Access to Internet

Nov 27, 2023

Sinema helped develop the bipartisan ACCESS Rural America Act while in the U.S. House

Sinema-shaped bill makes internet access more affordable for rural Arizonans

WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema introduced the Access to Capital Creates Economic Strength and Supports (ACCESS) Rural America Act – bipartisan legislation expanding internet access in rural Arizona by relieving service providers from costly reporting requirements that are not intended for small, rural companies. 

“Strengthening reliable broadband for rural Arizonans means increased access to quality, affordable care, education, and jobs in every corner of our state. Our bipartisan bill makes broadband accessible and affordable for Arizona families and businesses – no matter where they live,” said Sinema.

Sinema helped develop the bipartisan ACCESS Rural America Act while serving in the U.S. House. The legislation provides regulatory reform from costly reporting requirements not intended for small companies. 

Currently, providers must file a report with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) if their assets exceed $10 million and are held by 500 nonaccredited investors or 2,000 people. Sinema’s bipartisan bill would raise this threshold – exempting many smaller, rural telecommunication companies from costly, burdensome reporting. 

When Sinema first introduced the ACCESS Rural America Act in the U.S. House, Arizonans in rural parts of the state like Coconino County enthusiastically voiced their support for the commonsense legislation – noting how the bill cuts red tape so that broadband service providers can invest directly into rural communities.