In the past year, Oregonians near and far have depended on internet access to fuel their daily lives. From virtual learning to working from home, our routine connections have migrated from in-person towards virtual platforms. This change deepens the critical need for high-quality broadband throughout the state. Unfortunately, today many rural Oregonians have little to no internet access. While closing the digital divide is a momentous task, we can speed up the process and lower the cost.

Thanks to David Brock Smith, Oregon State Representative and a sponsor to House Bill 2654, for proposing a practical solution for breaking down one of the many roadblocks to bringing broadband to rural Oregon. In brief, HB 2654 would permit the utilization of an electric easement for broadband services.  While streamlining efforts to deploy broadband, this bill will also protect landowners’ rights. (You can read the HB 2654 attached to this news article. Please see below.)

Beacon Broadband’s efforts to deploy broadband where no one else will go will be positively impacted by the passing of SB 2654. The bill will both reduce costs and speed up the broadband deployment allowing us to light the fiber in your neighborhood sooner. The best part is, it won’t cost taxpayers a dime either. Expediting this bill is key to ensuring Beacon Broadband brings residents the fiber that connects their lives. 

Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative and Beacon Broadband encourage our members to extend a thank you to Representative Brock Smith, Marsh, and Owens as well as Senator Beyer and Findlay and acknowledge them for their efforts in sponsoring this critical legislation. Your outreach makes an impact.

Coos-Curry Electric and Beacon Broadband will keep you updated on the progress of HB 2654 on the website and social channels. Let’s break down the barrier!