The $2.2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress to help provide relief to the United States economy from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The closures of most workplaces and schools nationwide made clear the importance of internet access for all Americans. The CARES Act provided additional funding for broadband infrastructure deployment that will enhance distance learning, telehealth services, as well as other needs.
accelerateSC
The accelerateSC task force played a vital role in the safe and swift revitalization of our state’s economy following COVID-19. One important charge given to accelerateSC was to determine the best use of the CARES Act funds that were directed to South Carolina. They were also tasked with providing recommendations to the Governor for the $1.9 billion Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) included in the CARES Act.
As a result of those efforts, the South Carolina General Assembly passed Act 142 authorizing the ORS to expend up to $50 million for broadband initiatives related to COVID-19.
ORS CARES Act Broadband Update Webinar
The ORS held an update webinar on October 27, 2020 about the implementation of Act 142, which is helping to deploy broadband infrastructure across South Carolina. Executive Director Nanette Edwards and ORS staff discussed successes so far with the effort.