Today, the Georgia Senate passed Senate Bill 2 – authored by Senator Steve Gooch (R – 51) – to allow Georgia’s electric membership cooperatives (EMCs) to provide broadband services.

“Broadband access is critical to Georgia’s economic future,” said Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan. “Allowing our EMCs to provide broadband services is a step towards ridding Georgia of our ‘digital dirt roads’ and propelling rural Georgia to greater economic success. We’re committed to delivering real solutions on this issue because it’s vitally important to Georgia families.”

“SB 2 is the product of multiple years of hard work,” said Senate Majority Whip Steve Gooch. “Georgia’s EMCs are well-equipped to provide broadband service to Georgians that currently lack internet access. This issue is not only vital for my district, but for the state as a whole. I’m thankful for the Senate’s strong support on this issue.”

SB 2 now heads to the Georgia House of Representatives for consideration.