Senate Passes Bill To Create Program Supporting Rural Online Workforce

By Sarah Miller, Director of Social Policy
socialpolicy@palwv.org

Last week, the PA Senate voted unanimously to pass Senate Bill 962, which would create the Rural Co-Working and Innovation Centers Grant Program under the state Department of Community and Economic Development. Recipients of these grants could receive up to $500,000 to construct or renovate a coworking facility, improve utilities and broadband service connections, and for purchasing furniture and security systems to facilitate an online workforce.

According to the FCC, over 800,000 Pennsylvania residents have no access to broadband connectivity. Still, many residents who supposedly have broadband service suffer from low connectivity speeds. Underserved communities need access to true broadband connectivity as a way to stimulate economic growth.

This bipartisan will help the state of Pennsylvania realize that goal. Especially as the way we work has changed so drastically since the start of the pandemic, we must keep the pressure on and make sure this bill passes in the House.