Nesbitt Legislation Would Create Incentive For Broadband Expansion

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State Senator Aric Nesbitt has introduced legislation intended to help telecommunications companies expand broadband access in rural areas. He tells WSJM News the plan would grant a break on personal property taxes to companies that add new equipment to expand high-speed internet in unserved areas.

“For the first few years so that they can depreciate out their equipment, and then they’ll be able to invest more on the front end,” Nesbitt said. “This is what I am told is the number one impediment for investment into unserved areas.”

Nesbitt says efforts to increase broadband access in Van Buren County have been underway for years, and there has been progress, but the goal is for everyone to be covered.

“There are so many different holes and pockets throughout the county. Bloomingdale Communications up in the north central part of Van Buren has done a great job of trying to build out from their area, but there are still a lot of holes that aren’t reachable.”

Nesbitt says he’s heard plenty over the past year from people who lack access to broadband. During the pandemic, the problem has been a major concern. His bill is now before the Senate Energy and Technology Committee, and a companion bill is planned in the state House.