Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed legislation Friday designed to expand broadband internet access to rural areas throughout the state, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution. The measures were enacted at a ceremony in Dahlonega, GA, a mountainous area in the northern part of the state known to have spotty connectivity. Senate Bill 66, allows telecom firms to set up small cell equipment on public land.
But critics say the measure falls short of subsidizing internet service in rural parts of the state without adequate wireless infrastructure, the Constitution reported.
The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) praised the Governor for his action. “WIA commends Gov. Kemp for expeditiously signing Georgia’s small cell bill into law. Georgia joins 23 other states in adopting a legislative measure that puts the state on the path to 5G readiness. This legislation will help to bring jobs, economic growth, and innovation to the Peach State,” said WIA President and CEO Jonathan Adelstein.
“Enacting this bill will increase investment in 5G deployment across the state, and Georgians will soon be able to reap the benefits of next-generation wireless services. WIA is pleased to have supported this balanced and bipartisan bill. I thank the sponsors of the bill for their hard work and Governor Kemp for his leadership in bringing the measure over the finish line,” Adelstein said.
CTIA’s SVP External and State Affairs, Jamie Hastings, also applauded the Governor, Georgia Senator Gooch and Representative Harrell on the passage of Bill 66.
“This legislation will help consumers across Georgia access next-generation wireless broadband and ensure the economic benefits of 5G can be delivered to communities throughout the state,” Hasting said. “According to Accenture, next-generation wireless will bring more than $740M in economic growth to Atlanta and more than 1,400 jobs to Macon alone.” Comments? Email Us.
April 30, 2019
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