“Getting broadband to unserved communities that need it most is an important priority for our industry. The Expanding Opportunities for Broadband Deployment Act introduced today by Rep. G. K. Butterfield (D-NC) is legislation that takes important steps forward to achieving that goal and accelerating broadband deployment for more Americans. The bill repeals needless eligibility requirements that unfairly prevents qualified ISPs from participating in federal universal support programs designed to close broadband access gaps and encourage adoption. By retiring the eligible telecommunications carrier (ETC) designation, more ISPs with a proven track record of operating broadband networks would compete for government support. Now is the time for Congress to remove barriers that deter ISPs from delivering broadband service so that every American can have access to this important resource.”