The Alaska State Senate unanimously passed Senate Joint Resolution 13 on Monday, which aims to improve broadband internet access, speed, capacity and affordability throughout the state.
Senate Majority Leader Shelley Hughes, R-Palmer, “We are at a pivotal time, in 2019-2020 broadband providers invested a billion dollars into infrastructure in the state. Now, we are at a point when, about a year’s time, there will be a total through different buckets of funding coming in about another billion. It’s really important that we work together and send this message to our federal delegation, our congressional leaders and even to the leadership in our administration here in the state that we work together to do this. I could wax along eloquently and passionately about this topic, but the bottom line in today’s society technology, specifically broadband technology, is foundational to a thriving and vibrant economy. We want to open that door for all Alaskans across the entire state. I urge your support to SJR 13.”
The resolution requests technology-neutral and flexible funding criteria in federal appropriation legislation regarding Alaska’s terrain and size. It urges Congress to include broadband in any upcoming federal infrastructure legislation as other essential projects are included citing the expanding broadband infrastructure as critical to meeting the increasing demand for innovations in healthcare, education, remote work, and commerce, among other parts of the economy in Alaska.
The joint resolution passed 17-0 and is now on its way to the House of Representatives for consideration.
More information on SJR 13 can be found here.
(transcribed audio courtesy of KTOO 360TV)
