WJAC — $37.4 million announced for increased access to broadband internet in our region. This according to local lawmakers, and the Pennsylvania broadband development authority.

Lawmakers say the move is currently in the early stages of supplemental funding from the U.S. Department of treasury, (or P.B.D.A.).

State senator Wayne Langerholc says the usage of internet is becoming more essential, as time passes.

Langerholc tells me this will also allow for more competition to help fill the gaps in broadband internet access for rural areas.

“It’s so important across a multitude of issues. We saw that firsthand, during the pandemic, when i was a chairman of the education committee. We saw that in schools, we see that in businesses, we see that in just general overall quality of life in connectivity. We see that in the health realm, with telemedicine, in different hospitals. So, its vitally important in today’s day and age, and it's becoming as essential of a utility really as water, electric and gas, because it's involved in everything that we do, seemingly, on a daily basis in some capacity.” Langerholc says.

The motion is being headed by senator Kristin Philips-Hill, out of York county. Select lawmakers say the funding will be a necessary investment “back into our region.”

Residents in our region say the funding will help offset the fees that they would reportedly have to pay, if not for the allocated money.

According to the P.B.D.A., over 286,000 locations in the commonwealth have sub-par internet connectivity and speeds.

Lawmakers say the move is currently in the early stages of supplemental funding from the U.S. Department of treasury.

"Ultimately, the goal will be to have broadband access for everybody in the commonwealth. It’s a long range goal, but it's one that we are fully prepared to meet, and were going to keep working towards it.” says Langerholc.

I reached out to the Pennsylvania Broadband Internet Authority, for direct comment. They have not responded, as of this stories publishing.

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