The Federal Communications Commission broadband shows 80% to 100% of Butler County having internet access. The map and forms to challenge its contention can be found at broadbandmap.fcc.gov.

While those in the more densely populated areas of the county barely think about connecting to the internet, residents of the more rural areas are suffering serious repercussions because they can’t access broadband service.

On Thursday, Dec. 8, Gov. Tom Wolf announced the state has received $6.6 million in federal funds to close the digital divide and make broadband accessible for all residents of the state.

“Pennsylvania’s lack of affordable, accessible broadband is one of the biggest challenges holding our economy back,” Wolf said in a news release. “This $6.6 million is the beginning of a generational change waiting for Pennsylvanians.”

He said with guidance from the state Broadband Authority, distribution will be carefully targeted for guaranteed progress.

Kevin Boozel, county commissioner, said he attended two seminars on broadband inequity in Pennsylvania during an elected officials retreat last week.

Boozel said he learned that the Federal Communications Commission has created a map showing where broadband access is readily available down to areas where no broadband exists.

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