Gov Kemp signs Georgia's rural broadband expansion measures

Gov. Brian Kemp (R-GA) signed several pieces of legislation designed to expand internet access to rural areas that now lack fast online services. He signed the broadband measures at a ceremony in Dahlonega, part of a stretch of mountainous North Georgia territory where residents have long struggled with spotty connectivity. Surrounded by dozens of college students and local officials, the governor said the changes will “make a lasting impact on countless Georgians” and bring more competition to residents with few options. 

• Senate Bill 2 lets the state’s 42 electric membership corporations sell internet service along with power.
• Senate Bill 17 allows telephone cooperatives to offer internet services. 
• Senate Bill 66, clears the way for telecom firms to set up 5G technology equipment on public land. That proposal will primarily benefit large cities that are likely to receive faster cellphone internet service long before rural areas.

Lawmakers tucked about $2 million into this year’s budget proposal for rural internet funding; some estimates project it will cost well over $1 billion to rewire the entire state.