Congressman Carter Announces GUMBO 2.0 Program

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) joined Governor Jeff Landry (R-LA) to announce the launch of GUMBO 2.0. This program allows for the distribution of $1.355 billion in funding to support broadband access throughout Louisiana. This funding was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Congressman Carter proudly helped craft and voted for. The first round of funding for this initiative was announced in August, 2023.

“In an increasingly connected world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury – it is a necessity,” said Rep. Carter. “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.”

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, our GDP is expected to increase by $1.3 billion, and $2 to 3 billion in new revenue will be generated for Louisiana businesses.

“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 for our citizens to engage in remote work, and integrating technology into our agricultural sector. When we win in broadband, our citizens win, our communities win, our economy wins, and we position our state to win. I am eager to see this program in action, and look forward to the economic impacts it will have on our state for generations to come,” said Governor Jeff Landry.

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