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Blazing a Path
for Broadband in the Bluegrass
June 4, 2004
In
a ceremonial bill signing session at the Capitol on May 17, Governor
Ernie Fletcher signed House Bill 627, the Kentucky Rural Broadband
bill, deregulating broadband service and opening the door for
expanded technology investment throughout Kentucky. The bill signing
was applauded by connectkentucky steering committee members and
national industry leaders in attendance.
The
realization of expanded broadband service in rural Kentucky has
already begun, as BellSouth Corporation announced that the company
is expanding deployment of its high-speed Internet service in
59 communities within the coming months. “Broadband
is essential to building a more competitive local economy,”
stated Governor Ernie Fletcher. “In this bipartisan effort
to encourage broadband expansion, we are giving our rural communities
greater opportunity for economic development.”
According
to the Progressive Policy Institute, Kentucky ranks 41st in the
nation in broadband deployment. As part of his remarks, Governor
Fletcher challenged the connectkentucky partnership to build upon
its success to date by supporting full broadband deployment in
Kentucky by 2007. “Full broadband deployment will allow us
to create a critical mass of innovative businesses in Kentucky,”
said Governor Fletcher.
“This
progressive legislation is making possible the increased investment
in broadband infrastructure in Kentucky,” said Eddy Roberts,
President of Kentucky BellSouth and connectkentucky steering committee
member. “The leadership of Governor Fletcher and the support
of the Legislature have been bold. The resulting legislation creates
certainty in the marketplace for companies deploying broadband
in rural markets."
Governor
Fletcher concluded, “Today, we celebrate an important step
towards expanding our technology infrastructure, while understanding
that there is still much work to be done. This administration
will continue to advance policies and build partnerships that
put Kentucky on the cutting edge of growing entrepreneurs and
innovative small businesses.”
Audio
Dr. Linda Johnson applauds Governor Fletcher’s Rural Broadband
Initiative, Signing of House Bill 627 - 5/17/2004 (mp3)
Contact:
Doug Hogan
Jeannie Lausche
Jason Keller
502-564-2611
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