SE Kansas News

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran from Kansas and Mark Warner from Virginia have introduced the Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act, which aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code. This legislation seeks to ensure that federal broadband deployment funding is not considered taxable income. The proposal has garnered support from various organizations, including businesses, universities, and associations nationwide.

A statement supporting the act highlights its consumer benefits: "We appreciate the leadership of Senators Moran and Warner for their efforts to eliminate the tax on broadband grants to ensure more investment can connect more of our citizens and communities. Their bill is as pro-consumer as it gets."

CTIA also expressed approval: “CTIA commends the bipartisan work of Senators Warner and Moran to reintroduce the Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act in this Congress. Guaranteeing that grant funds can be optimally spent as intended will encourage the investments that reinforce and accelerate broadband deployment.”

The NTCA shared similar sentiments regarding taxation on these funds: “NTCA and its members greatly appreciate Congress’s commitment to funding broadband deployment programs that help further the mission of connecting all Americans. However, when these funds are taxed, providers are required to pay the federal government a portion of the same award they received...”

Another supporter emphasized potential impacts on rural areas: “Grant funding has the potential to make sure that our rural and underserved communities receive connectivity through wireless and broadband services... Federal broadband grants should be free from taxation..."

INCOMPAS endorsed public-private partnerships facilitated by this legislation: "INCOMPAS members are building networks of the future with a mission to connect all Americans... INCOMPAS wholeheartedly supports this commonsense measure..."

ACA Connects expressed gratitude towards both senators for leading this initiative: “ACA Connects thanks Senators Jerry Moran and Mark Warner for leading on the Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act.”

Advocates for Rural Broadband stressed concerns about tax burdens: "We applaud Senators Moran and Warner for reintroducing this bipartisan legislation..."

TIA highlighted how current tax treatments reduce available network-building funds: “TIA is pleased to see...the reintroduction of the Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act (BGTTA) by Senators Warner and Moran.”

The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association noted its broad membership's backing: "The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association...are proud to support..."

Nex-Tech praised Senator Moran's efforts against taxation challenges: “I would like to thank Senator Moran on his leadership in addressing taxation challenges...”

Lastly, local Kansan supporters appreciated efforts focused on unserved regions needing reliable service.