Senator Phillips-Hill Leads Effort to Modernize Pennsylvania’s Broadband and Telephone Infrastructure

Senator Phillips-Hill Leads Effort to Modernize Pennsylvania’s Broadband and Telephone Infrastructure

Bipartisan Support and Industry Leaders Back Legislation to Expand High-Speed Connectivity

HARRISBURG, PA – (March 26, 2025)— Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill, joined by industry leaders from Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) and Pennsylvania Telephone Association (PTA), the PA Chamber of Business and Industry, today introduced landmark legislation to modernize Pennsylvania’s telephone and broadband infrastructure. This fiber-first initiative aims to close the digital divide and equip the Commonwealth with a high-speed, future-ready network.

 “In Pennsylvania, nearly 280,000 households, businesses, schools, and libraries still lack broadband access,” said Senator Phillips-Hill. “This legislation is about more than just improving internet connectivity—it’s about expanding opportunities in education, jobs, and healthcare for all Pennsylvanians. By streamlining regulations and spurring investment, we can bring Pennsylvania’s infrastructure into the 21st century.”

“Expanding broadband infrastructure across Pennsylvania is crucial to growing Pennsylvania’s economy and supporting local communities,” said Marissa Mitrovich, Vice President of Public Policy of the Fiber Broadband Association. “This legislation will modernize networks, cut unnecessary costs, and pave the way for a more reliable, high-speed digital future. The FBA commends Senator Phillips-Hill for working to create a better environment for customers and Pennsylvania-owned broadband service providers.

“With more than $1 billion scheduled to be distributed to broadband providers in our state it is critical that we be in a position to take advantage of this opportunity and Senate Bill 491 is the appropriate vehicle to do just that,” said Steve Samara, President of the PA Telephone Association. “Sponsored by Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill, this legislation eliminates the costs associated with adherence to outdated regulations and allows Brightspeed and all Pennsylvania RLECs to fully invest in the fiber networks that will bring world class services to all corners of our Commonwealth.” 

“Modernizing our telecommunications regulations, as SB 491 seeks to do, is not just an opportunity—it’s a necessity. For far too long, outdated regulations have hindered progress and limited the ability of companies to invest in the technology that drives Pennsylvania’s economy and future,” said Amy Brinton, Director, Government Affairs from the PA Chamber of Business and Industry. “This regulatory reform allows companies to remove unnecessary barriers and focus on what really matters: building the high-speed fiber networks that power economic growth across Pennsylvania.”

Key provisions of this bill include network modernization, flexibility in service technology, and streamlined PUC regulations. This bill would cut down red tape for expansion and investment in broadband and telephone connectivity, and by addressing outdated regulations and fostering innovation, this legislation lays the groundwork for a more connected and competitive Pennsylvania.

Media Contact:
Tinae Bluitt
tbluitt@fiberbroadband.org