It's unanimous: Pennsylvania House OKs high speed Internet bill

The Pennsylvania House unanimously passed a bill aimed at improving last mile access to high-speed Internet for the state's rural and inner city residents.

House Bill 1490 aims to bring together Internet service providers, telecom workers, and the state agencies to create an updated service access map, a long-term plan to offer service to rural and inner city areas, and an annual progress report.

When this bill was introduced this winter, CWA's Debbie Goldman testified in a room packed with CWA activists at a hearing before the House Consumer Affairs Committee in support of the legislation. Now with its unanimous passage in the House, it will head to the state Senate for further consideration.

State Rep. Todd Eachus sponsored the bill, saying,

"In the 21st century it's impossible for schools, businesses and the average person to compete without access to fast, reliable Internet service. Unfortunately, some areas of our state are being left behind when it comes to access to high-speed Internet services, and my legislation creates a reasonable, comprehensive plan of action to get service where it is needed and provide state oversight of the process." 

It is great to hear states taking the initiative to ensure that high speed Internet is seen as a public utility rather than a public service. As Rep. Eachus said,

"This is the rural electrification of the modern day, and just like that effort reinvented new areas of our nation, this effort will lead to a diverse, powerful network of new entrepreneurs and leaders to make our state a better place to live, from rural counties to the hearts of our largest cities."

High-speed Web access planned with state bill (Times Leader)

PA bill would improve, expand service (Speed Matters)