Special to the American Press

Gov. Jeff Landry today announced the launch of the GUMBO 2.0 program. This program allows for the distribution of $1.355 billion in funding to support broadband access throughout the state.

This initiative will expand broadband access to 140,000 locations — including 100,000 homes (60,000 of which are in rural parishes), 35,000 businesses, and 4,000 community anchor institutions such as schools, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies. GUMBO 2.0 will create 8 to 10 thousand new jobs, GDP is expected to increase by $1.3 billion, and $2 to 3 billion in new revenue will be generated for Louisiana companies.

This funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and will be administered by the country’s top ranked broadband office (According to a 2024 American Enterprise Institute ranking of broadband offices), the Louisiana Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity.

“Today, we are one step closer to eliminating the digital divide in our state. GUMBO 2.0 will play a direct role in expanding access to health care, growing our state’s small businesses, providing opportunities in the education field, and integrating technology into our agricultural sector. When we win in broadband, our citizens win, our communities win, and our economy wins. I am eager to see this program in action, and I look forward to the economic impacts it will have on our state for generations to come,” said Governor Jeff Landry.

“Louisianans need high-speed internet to grow their businesses and educate our children, and today we are investing in that need,” said Dr. Bill Cassidy. ”I was proud to be an integral part of securing this money for our state and am thankful to Governor Landry as he puts this $1.35 billion into action.”

“In an increasingly connected world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury – it is a necessity. Louisiana’s GUMBO program is a commitment to ensure no community is left behind in the digital age. It is building a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone. Today, we are leveling the playing field to guarantee that geography does not determine one’s access to information and essential services,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).

“Governor Landry and I have said the people deserve to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Broadband is a critical component to offering healthcare services especially in our rural communities. This funding will allow the department to expand healthcare access, and improve services already being offered across the entire state. I thank Governor Landry and the Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity for bringing the Louisiana Department of Health to the table, and recognizing how this funding could be used to create a healthier Louisiana,” said Louisiana Surgeon General Doctor Ralph Abraham

“As a result of today’s announcement and under the leadership of Governor Landry, the infrastructure challenges relating to the digital divide will be eliminated in Louisiana over the next couple of years. The impacts will be immeasurable as every day Louisianans from the four corners of the state and in between will soon have an asset that will significantly impact their daily lives, whether in healthcare, education, in our ability to drive economic development wins and increase the labor force participation rate,” said Veneeth Iyengar, Executive Director of Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity.