Texas’ $5 Billion Investment in Broadband Development
The Texas Legislature is determined to maintain the state’s reputation for innovation, growth, and progress by improving its infrastructure for future generations. At ART, we are proud that Texas Leadership is planning on doing this through House Bill 9, which aims to expand broadband and telecommunication services all over Texas.
House Bill 9, which was introduced by Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) and co-authored by 82 representatives or 55% of the chamber, would create the Texas Broadband Infrastructure Fund, a $5 billion fund to be administered by the Texas Comptroller’s office.
This fund is dedicated to improving high-speed broadband connectivity and expanding internet access through the Texas Broadband Development Office. This bill demonstrates Texas’ commitment to advancing technology and making a significant investment in broadband development, which is the biggest to date.
In addition, House Bill 9 acknowledges that having internet access is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for modern living — as we rely on the internet for everything from work and school to staying in touch with friends and family.
If passed into law, House Bill 9 will establish the infrastructure that every Texan needs, especially after many families faced difficulties with remote learning and work during the COVID-19 pandemic. State Rep. Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) said “one of the positive attributes is that it really highlighted the need we have in East Texas and across the state for better broadband, better connectivity to what we know now is an absolute necessity.”
Rep. Ashby’s House Joint Resolution 125 also deserves mention, as it proposes putting House Bill 9 on the Texas ballot if passed by the legislature. By doing so, voters would have a direct say in the state’s commitment to broadband expansion and technological advancement. This approach ensures that the people of Texas have a voice in shaping the state’s future and underscores the importance of civic engagement.
“Democracy works best when voters are involved in every step of the process,” President of ART Jamie McWright said. “The ART team is immensely proud of the work that Rep. Ashby is doing to make life better for all Texans.”
