On Wednesday, Vermont lawmakers unanimously passed a compromise to expand broadband services, approving a $150 million budget to speed up high-speed internet deployment across the state. Seven Days reported the action reconciles the Senate and House versions of House Bill 360.
According to Rep. Laura Sibilia, 25 percent of the state does not have access to basic broadband. The bill aims to roll out broadband (100 Mbps) with funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act. It also directs future grants through a new, five-member Vermont Community Broadband Board, which plans to dole out money to communications union districts instead of directly to ISPs.
Seven Days reported the funding allocation plan would ensure broadband is made available to all residents, not just address what private companies find profitable. The compromise allows private firms to qualify for grants if they work with a municipality that wasn’t part of a communications union district before June 1, provided the work moves the needle towards universal coverage.
“Anybody can pretty much do anything they want on their own dime,” said Sen. Ann Cummings. “We’re setting the conditions to access state money.”
Rep. Tim Briglin noted the Senate bill was “more permissive” than the House’s toward allowing some funds for private providers. Another difference was the House wanted the broadband board to be independent and operate outside of the Department of Public Service, while the Senate argued for keeping it inside the department, ensuring the governor remained accountable for it. The House agreed to the Senate’s point of view.
Presently, the Department of Public Service is permitted to issue $20 million in grants while the broadband board is established. According to Seven Days, networks built with the funds can not be sold without the board’s approval.
The measure now heads to the desk of Gov. Phil Scott for his signature.
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