DENVER—Today the full Senate gave initial approval for a measure that would help bring broadband internet service to rural areas in Colorado.
Sponsored by Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass), the bill would direct Colorado’s Chief Information Officer to identify broadband telecommunications service areas within Colorado and to develop a map of those areas, with the goal of using the map to help plan the deployment of broadband service to unserved areas of the state.
“This bill is a huge step into the 21st century for Colorado,” said Schwartz. “Many parts of rural Colorado have fallen behind Front Range areas in access to broadband communications. Broadband communication is crucial for economic development, and extending this technology will dramatically improve health care and educational services and strengthen local businesses in rural Colorado.”
SB08-215 will next be considered by the Senate on third and final reading.
