Broadband expansion's achievements and remaining hurdles

Between 2019 and 2021, the number of Ohioans working from home tripled, demonstrating the vital function of high-speed internet services like broadband in Ohio’s workforce. Additionally, remote learning, telemedicine and other online programs continue to thrive well after the pandemic. A 2022 analysis by The Ohio State University, however, indicates over 1.4 million Ohioans continue to lack residential access to fast, reliable high-speed internet service. The Ohio Chamber has long advocated for broadband expansion. Several policy initiatives have placed Ohio on a trajectory to dramatically expand broadband infrastructure, including the Ohio Broadband Strategy, which created the BroadbandOhio office under the Ohio Department of Development. Another pivotal step was the enactment of the Ohio Residential Broadband Expansion Grant Program, which provides state grants to facilitate construction of residential high-speed internet service to unserved households across the state. With remote work on the rise and the high demand for internet services in everyday life, it is essential for every Ohioan to have access to high-speed internet and broadband services.

[Steve Stivers is the president and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce.]