Senate Communications Committee To Hold Hearings On Improving Access To High-Speed Internet

On July 31, the Senate Communications and Technology Committee announced it will hold a series of public hearings focusing on aspects of high-speed internet access across the state, according to the Committee Chair Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York).

The public hearings will focus on key issues surrounding why high-speed internet access is critical for Pennsylvania residents, farmers, doctors, emergency responders, local elected officials, students, teachers and employers.

Individuals representing a wide array of public entities will testify before the Committee.

“As someone who represents many residents who lack broadband access, I understand that without high-speed internet, we are limited in so many areas of our economy and uncompetitive with other states,” Sen. Phillips-Hill said. “These public hearings will explore all implications of what broadband deployment means to our Commonwealth’s future.”

“Deploying high-speed internet across the state is a shared goal for me and many of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle. However, it’s key that we have as much information and accurate data to ensure we do this correctly and in a way that respects the taxpayers,” she added.

Below is the schedule for the upcoming public hearings:

-- August 7: Indiana County with Sen. Joe Pittman (R-Indiana). This public hearing will focus on job creation and local government perspectives.

-- September 3: Monroe County with Sen. Mario Scavello (R-Monroe). This public hearing will focus on emergency response and medical perspectives.

-- September 5: Fayette/Somerset Counties with Sen. Pat Stefano (R-Fayette). This public hearing will focus on how access to high-speed internet can benefit agriculture and education.

Following the hearings, the Committee will hold a recap hearing at the state Capitol when the Senate reconvenes in September.

For more information [when posted], visit the Senate Communications and Technology Committee webpage.
[Note: Gov. Wolf announced the Restore Pennsylvania Infrastructure Plan in February that includes funding expansion of high-speed Internet access, particularly in rural areas.]
NewsClips:

Disconnected: Rural PA Disadvantaged By Slow Internet Speeds

Editorial: Broadband Access Key To Lycoming Region’s Future