California Legislators Applaud Historic “Broadband for All” Investments and Urge Further Legislation to Finally Address the Digital Divide

Sacramento, Calif. – On July 13th, 2021 Senator Lena A. Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) and Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) released the following statement in response to the newly announced agreement reached by Legislative Leaders on the broadband trailer bill, AB/SB 156, that will expand 21st century high-speed broadband infrastructure to help close the digital divide and meet connectivity needs for more California businesses, individuals and families. 

 

“California is one of the largest economies in the world and this unprecedented broadband investment will create many opportunities for generations to come,” said Senator Lena A. Gonzalez (D-Long Beach). “Whether you are in urban, rural or suburban California, this budget bill will ensure you are connected to a fast, reliable and affordable broadband network in our state. However, the work continues, and we must not only invest now, but continue investing through legislation. Both, SB 4 and AB 14 will provide an ongoing funding source for infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas of our state while also promoting competition by empowering local governments and internet service providers of all sizes to serve our California residents. This is a bill that represents our values and for that, I am truly proud.” 

 

“This broadband deployment budget bill will have an enormous impact on the lives of all Californians,” said Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters). “In partnership with my colleague Senator Gonzalez, we have highlighted the critical need to modernize our state’s broadband policy and programs, and to commit long-term funding to guarantee internet connectivity for all California communities, rural and urban.  I am immensely proud that our efforts have contributed to a budget deal between Governor Newsom, Pro Tem Atkins and Speaker Rendon to provide a generational $6 billion investment in broadband infrastructure.  Modern, adaptable technology in every corner of our State will provide access to education and job training, health care, and the digital economy. Passage of AB 14 and SB 4 this year is the next essential step in providing a historic policy and funding package to lead California into the future.”