New Jersey Senate Bill SCR64

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Urges BPU to investigate broadband Internet and landline telephone services in State's rural communities; urges State Board of Agriculture and Department of Agriculture to explore ways these services can be brought to State's rural communities.

Impact

The bill acknowledges that modern agriculture increasingly relies on advanced technology, which necessitates robust Internet services for various operations including advertising, remote sensing, and coordination of shipping. The lack of adequate broadband service is viewed as a barrier not only for farmers but also for all residents and institutions in rural areas, limiting their ability to fully leverage technological advancements. By conducting investigations and advocating for improvements, SCR64 aims to position these communities to better utilize technology for enhancing both agricultural practices and economic development.

Summary

SCR64 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution introduced to urge the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to investigate the status of high-speed broadband Internet and landline telephone services specifically in New Jersey's rural communities. The resolution further encourages the State Board of Agriculture and the Department of Agriculture to explore methods to enhance and provide reliable broadband Internet and landline services in these underserved areas. The intent is to support farmers, residents, and businesses in improving their operational effectiveness and overall quality of life through enhanced connectivity.

Contention

While the resolution is primarily supportive, it can lead to discussions about the allocation of state resources and priorities. How the state approaches the improvement of broadband services may evoke differing perspectives on whether sufficient funding and efforts will be directed towards rural areas as opposed to urban centers. There is the underlying concern that failing to effectively enhance broadband services could perpetuate economic disparities faced by rural communities in comparison to their urban counterparts.