State representative Jim Struzzi is praising the recent passage of a bill that will help expand broadband internet service to un-served and under served areas of the state through the creation of a broadband authority.
Act 96 of 2021, formerly House Bill 2071, establishes the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, to coordinate and facilitate funds to bring high-speed internet infrastructure to areas that do not have it right now. The state will receive $100 million from the federal government for the effort, but more money could come in after a statewide plan for broadband extension is developed by the authority.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Struzzi called the creation of the authority a “key piece in the effort to expand broadband to the un-served and under served areas.” He also said that the authority will serve as a single point of contact for parties interested in developing broadband or having broadband developed, which will minimize duplication and maximize the use of existing infrastructure.
The authority will also ensure that any work done as part of the broadband expansion will be done by reputable companies.
