I will be re-introducing HB 872 from the 2023-2024 Session to limit the financial impact on our local telephone companies from moving communications network infrastructure during road and bridge projects.

One of the critical lessons we've learned during the COVID-19 pandemic is the importance of having a robust broadband network throughout the Commonwealth and, consequently, we are asking our landline telephone companies to improve and enhance advanced networks for our constituents in order to deliver faster broadband speeds. The costs associated with moving poles, lines, etc. to accommodate new road construction is making this investment even more difficult since much of this expense cannot be recouped by the companies.

Act 89 of 2013 provided for cost sharing between certain public utilities and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and my legislation would allow those discussions between parties to include local landline telcos as well.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.