SB 5511 and HB 1498, the Governor-request bills creating a statewide broadband office and new funding program, continue to advance in both chambers. If passed, the legislation would create a competitive grant and loan program managed by the Public Works Board to help promote expanded broadband access.

The House ($25 million) and Senate ($20 million) capital budgets divert critical infrastructure dollars from Public Works Trust Fund (PWTF) programs to support the new broadband grants and loans. AWC supports the creation of the statewide broadband office and new funding programs but opposes the diversion of resources from the PWTF to pay for the efforts.

Dates to remember

HB 1498 is scheduled for a public hearing in the Senate Ways & Means Committee on April 4 at 1:30 pm.

SB 5511 is scheduled for a public hearing in the House Capital Budget Committee on April 4 at 9 am.