In late December state Sen. Steve Gooch (R – Dahlonega) prefiled Senate Bill 2, which would authorize Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) to offer broadband services to their customers. The bill is one of three that Gooch will introduce this year to expand the availability of broadband and 5G technology throughout the state.
“As a champion for broadband expansion over the past three years, I am proud to sponsor this legislation which will ensure that all Georgians have access to fast, reliable internet,” Gooch said. “Expanding broadband access to all of our citizens continues to be a top priority. By enabling EMCs to deploy these services to areas of the state that have limited or no broadband access at all, we can create a competitive marketplace.”
Bill Verner, senior vice president, Georgia EMC, said the organization supports legislation aimed at helping bridge the digital divide for rural Georgians. “Senate Bill 2 is an essential first step for the establishment of a framework for addressing this challenge that won’t be solved overnight. Rural Georgians should be encouraged that there is such a high level of attention being paid to this issue.”
“Georgia EMC is ready to work with Rep. Powell, the Kemp Administration, and leaders in the General Assembly to bridge the digital divide for rural Georgians,” Verner added.
USDA’s recently announced $600 million ReConnect program for rural broadband adds a sense of urgency for legislative action, as EMCs must first be made eligible by the General Assembly in order to apply for grants and/or loans for this or other broadband programs. USDA’s ReConnect application portal is scheduled to open in March.
Senate Bill 2 would allow EMCs to provide internet services and broadband to their customers, in addition to supplying electrical energy. The corporations would be able to provide these additional services either directly or indirectly through a broadband affiliate.
