House Bill 627 Passes Out of the House Tourism Development and Energy Committee

              Frankfort, KY: Governor Ernie Fletcher's rural broadband initiative took a significant step forward today with passage of House Bill 627 by the House Tourism Development and Energy Committee.  The bill now moves to the full floor in the House.

             The bill is designed to create regulatory parity among competing broadband providers.  This incentive is expected to lead to an expansion of broadband service to rural Kentucky. According to the Progressive Policy Institute, Kentucky currently ranks 41st in the nation in broadband deployment. 

             "One important goal of my administration is to expand broadband in Kentucky while ensuring that basic local services are protected," stated Governor Fletcher. "Expanding broadband service is vital to expanding economic opportunity to all Kentuckians, and this is particularly significant in Kentucky's rural areas."

            The Governor continued, "House Bill 627 is the kind of progressive policy that will help move Kentucky into the knowledge-based economy, help entrepreneurs grow small business, and enhance Kentucky's ability to compete with our surrounding states."

             Governor Fletcher applauded the leadership of the bill sponsor, Representative Tanya Pullin.  "Representative Pullin understands that broadband expansion will lead to better opportunities and economic growth. I believe that her knowledge of the issue and willingness to work with all sides has produced a good bill.  My administration will continue to support her efforts as we move this bill forward."

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