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A 2024

Establishes the New York state rural mobile communications fund

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Angelino and 11 co-sponsors

A 2024 - Establishes the New York State Rural Mobile Communications Fund OverviewBill Number: A 2024 Title: Establishes the New York state rural mobile communications fund Status

REFERRED TO WAYS AND MEANS
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Bill Summary · A 2024

A 2024 - Establishes the New York State Rural Mobile Communications Fund

Overview

Bill Number: A 2024
Title: Establishes the New York state rural mobile communications fund
Status: REFERRED TO WAYS AND MEANS
Introduced: January 14, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to establish a dedicated fund to improve mobile communications infrastructure and service in rural areas of New York state. The legislation recognizes the significant digital divide between urban and rural communities, with many rural residents lacking access to reliable, high-quality mobile coverage. By creating this fund, the state aims to incentivize private investment and support public-private partnerships to expand mobile network coverage and capacity in underserved rural regions.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes the "New York State Rural Mobile Communications Fund" to provide grants and other financial assistance for projects that expand mobile broadband access in rural areas
  • Directs the state's Department of Public Service to administer the fund and develop program guidelines, including eligibility criteria and application processes
  • Authorizes the fund to receive appropriations from the state budget, as well as donations, grants, and other revenue sources
  • Requires grant recipients to provide matching funds and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing maintenance and operation of supported infrastructure
  • Mandates that at least 75% of fund disbursements be directed to projects in communities with populations under 50,000 people

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be rural residents and businesses in New York state who currently lack reliable mobile coverage. Improved mobile communications infrastructure is expected to enhance economic opportunities, public safety, and quality of life in these underserved areas.

Telecommunications providers, both large and small, would also be impacted as they become eligible to apply for grants and partner with the state on rural network expansion projects. The fund aims to incentivize private investment and innovation in rural mobile technology.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill has been referred to the New York State Assembly's Ways and Means Committee for further consideration. If approved by the committee, it would then proceed to a full floor vote in the Assembly. Companion legislation would also need to be introduced and passed in the State Senate before the bill could be signed into law by the governor.

Given the bipartisan support for addressing the rural digital divide, the bill has a reasonable chance of advancing through the legislative process, though the timeline for final passage remains uncertain.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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