Broadband, said Georgia CIO Shawnzia Thomas, is also a priority as the state continues to weather the COVID-19 pandemic.

The tentative $1.2 trillion deal negotiated by a bipartisan Senate group offers less for broadband than the $100 billion the White House initially sought.

Many cities, counties and tribal governments have broadband projects ready, but not enough funding, according to a report from Cisco.

A meeting led by nonprofits and broadband experts convened tribal leaders who are seeking to improve connectivity on their lands.

The state plans to fund major infrastructure projects to eliminate the digital divide and has created a new "broadband czar" role to oversee expansion efforts.

Officials estimated the funding will connect approximately 12,000 additional households to high-speed internet.

Gov. Ralph Northam said the investment will move the commonwealth's target for universal broadband access from 2028 to 2024.

The National Association of Counties broadband report offers a "deep dive" into the steps local governments can take to improve broadband access.

The Maryland senator asked Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to issue a final rule clarifying how states and localities can fund broadband with relief funding.