Saying that expanded broadband access is crucial for Michigan, Lawton State Senator Aric Nesbitt is excited that his colleagues in the Michigan Senate approved a measure that he had sponsored seeking to improve access to reliable broadband Internet in the state.
Nesbitt says, “Expanding broadband access is crucial for families, seniors and those working from home,” and adds, “Many folks in my district and under-served areas across the state have been left behind, so we need to encourage significant broadband investments to get everyone caught up, and on a level playing field.”
Senate Bill 46 would increase incentives and promote investment in broadband equipment with the hope of bringing more high-speed internet infrastructure and service to under-served and unserved areas of the state. The legislation aims to prompt investors to upgrade their equipment and expand services to areas that currently do not receive high-speed internet.
Nesbitt introduced a similar bill in 2019, but the need for broadband has escalated substantially due to COVID-19. Nesbitt said he remains committed to improving Internet access for his district and throughout the state.
The senator says, “Reliable access to the Internet is increasingly becoming a requirement for day-to-day life,” and adds, “The bill will lower government-imposed costs, reduce barriers to expansion and encourage meaningful investments in our communities.”
The legislation will now move to the Michigan House of Representatives for further consideration.
