Committee advances broadband service legislation

The state House Consumer Affairs Committee recently advanced legislation that would bring broadband service to the Northern Tier.

House Bill 2071 would create a Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. The authority would be tasked with coordinating joint efforts for broadband buildout, identifying access to funding sources, and serve as a single point of contact for parties interested in developing broadband or having broadband developed.

The goal is to maximizing the use of existing infrastructure while minimizing duplication.

The authority would terminate after six years unless renewed by legislative action.

The U.S. Congress recently approved an infrastructure bill that is expected to provide Pennsylvania with at least $100 million with the potential to obtain more after the authority develops a statewide plan for broadband expansion.

State Reps. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter), Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford/Potter) and Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna) authored the bill.

“Access to high-speed internet is not a luxury but a necessity for our students and teachers, our farmers and business owners, and our doctors and patients,” Causer said. “We have an unprecedented opportunity to finally see the kind of investment we need to get quality broadband service to people across rural Pennsylvania and it’s vital we make sure that money is spent wisely.”

The moves to the full House for consideration.