Lorain Times

Last week, Congressman Bob Latta reintroduced the WIRELESS Leadership Act, a bill aimed at updating broadband permitting processes to lower barriers for expanding internet infrastructure. The legislation seeks to improve transparency in the application process for broadband providers and ensure faster approval of broadband deployment projects.

Latta emphasized the importance of reliable broadband access across all communities, particularly in rural areas. He stated, “Every American deserves access to reliable broadband. To close the digital divide, we must expand broadband access to unserved and underserved communities, especially in rural areas. Over the years, billions of dollars have been allocated to expand rural broadband, but without meaningful broadband permitting reform, it’s not enough. If we do not reform this process, all of the federal money will be tied up in burdensome permitting reviews resulting in more unnecessary delays. That’s why I reintroduced the WIRELESS Leadership Act to streamline state and local permitting, cut through burdensome reviews, and accelerate broadband deployment so more communities can get connected. Reliable broadband means students can complete their homework, small businesses can compete in a digital economy, and farmers can access the latest tools and technologies to improve productivity. Now is the moment to close the digital divide once and for all,” said Latta.

Bob Latta currently represents Ohio’s 5th district in Congress after succeeding Paul Gillmor in 2007 (https://latta.house.gov/). He has served as Co-Chair of the Rural Broadband Caucus and previously led efforts on communications policy as chair of a subcommittee within the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Throughout his tenure since 2007 (https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/L000566), Latta has supported initiatives focused on improving internet access for rural communities both in Ohio and nationwide. His previous legislative work includes sponsoring the Broadband Data Act—signed into law in 2020—which required updated mapping by the FCC so that federal resources could be better directed toward areas lacking adequate internet service.

Born in Bluffton, Ohio in 1956, Latta resides in Bowling Green (https://www.cleveland.com/datacentral/2018/01/who_is_us_rep_bob_latta.html). He holds degrees from Bowling Green State University (BA) and University of Toledo (JD).