Universal Broadband Bill Signed Today

(Los Angeles, CA) – Following Governor Newsom’s signing of SB 156, the $6-billion dollar framework for universal Broadband agreed on by the Assembly, Senate, and Governor in Senate Bill 156, Assembly Member Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), Chair of the Assembly Committee on Communications and Conveyance, released the following statement:

“The time for universal high-speed internet is right now,” said Assembly Member Miguel Santiago. “The pandemic exposed the massive divide between those who have computers and internet, and those who do not. To close this divide, we must deliver a monumental investment in public broadband infrastructure by bringing access to affordable high-speed internet to underserved communities in an equitable manner. The agreement we fought for in SB 156 will accomplish just this.”

The $3.25 billion will build a statewide open-access “middle mile” which will help bring internet service to rural areas, and introduce competition in urban areas to bring down prices. Another $2 billion is being committed for “last mile” infrastructure projects in rural and urban areas to connect underserved households to high-speed internet, with $1 billion initially reserved for urban areas. Lastly, the deal includes $750 million for a loan-loss reserve account to help local governments and non-profits secure funding for municipal broadband networks. The total $6 billion dollar package is funded through the California general fund and the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

Assemblymember Miguel Santiago is the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Communications and Conveyance Committee and the Assembly Select Committee on Los Angeles County Homelessness. He represents the 53rd District composed of the cities of Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Vernon.