Briel Measure Expands Rural Internet Access, Voted Favorably to Senate Floor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Efforts to connect establishments across the state to high speed internet are underway thanks to a measure led by state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, which awaits a final Senate vote before heading to the governor’s desk for consideration.

“Legislation that prioritizes connecting libraries, schools, forest preserves and correctional facilities to high-speed internet is integral for the progress of rural communities,” said Briel. “When high-speed internet, or broadband, is accessible, it means more students can succeed in the classroom, educators have the most up-to-date resources, park rangers can access communication with ease and law enforcement have the tools they need to do their jobs best. ”

House Bill 1062 helps expand broadband access — which is characterized as high speed internet — by prioritizing public entities, classified as “anchor institutions” by the Illinois Century Network (ICN), which states Illinois libraries and schools, state-owned correctional facilities, and park districts or similar conservation districts shall receive high-speed internet services first.

Plus, the bill details which anchor institutions are near existing broadband infrastructure, which will ultimately minimize costs and maximize the efficient use of current resources.

“I’m thrilled to work alongside the senate sponsor, Senator Ventura, to get this bill through the finish line and connect more residents to the high speed internet access they need to succeed in today’s virtually-dependent environment," said Briel. “By optimizing our current infrastructure, we’re prioritizing low cost but big impact.”