Op-Ed: Legislation Would Improve Broadband In New York

Excerpt reprinted from the Buffalo News, by CWA Local 1122 Member Tom Roulley; click here to read the full piece.

The pandemic and the ever-changing nature of the coronavirus has made it clear that high-speed internet access is a fundamental necessity for families, businesses and students. Yet even before the virtual shift caused by Covid-19, too many New Yorkers were struggling to connect without reliable access to affordable, high-speed internet.

This digital divide has only grown more apparent during the pandemic – but with new federal funding on the way, we have the chance to improve broadband capabilities in New York, and create access for the 9 million New Yorkers without an affordable or reliable internet connection.

In November, President Biden signed into law his $1 trillion infrastructure bill, which contains $65 billion for states to expand broadband access.

This funding gives New York the opportunity to build broadband infrastructure for millions of New Yorkers. Providing consistent broadband access removes one substantial barrier to the state’s recovery efforts, allowing more people to get connected and stay safe.

But we know that the promise of funding doesn’t guarantee it will reach those who need it most. Historically, telecommunications companies have neglected to serve less profitable areas – a major reason we are in this situation today.

Click here to read the full piece by Tom Roulley, member of CWA Local 1122.