Rural Business and Economic Development Groups Support of AB 2395 to Modernize California Telecommunications Policy

SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 18, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Four of California's leading rural business and economic development groups, announced today their support for Assemblymember Evan Low's (D-Silicon Valley) Assembly Bill 2395.

The coalition includes the Economic Development Corporations of both Fresno and Kern Counties, the El Dorado Chamber of Commerce, and the Monterey County Business Council, which collectively represent nearly 2.5 million residents. They are joined by Imperial CapitalVentures, a private investment firm located in Imperial County.

"We all agree that our rural communities need investment in broadband technologies," said MaryAnn Leffel, President of the Monterey County Business Council. "Today, access to technology is a necessary tool for communicating with each other and interacting with current and potential customers. That is why we are all supporting AB 2395: to increase access to modern technologies in rural areas in California."

The coalition released the following letter to Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego), who chairs the Assembly Appropriations Committee:

"California's rural communities face several economic challenges: the current water shortage, access to capital, high poverty rates, and environmental challenges. Our rural communities have some of the highest poverty rates in California. Our economic development corporations are meeting those challenges by creating good paying jobs for working families, attracting and retaining businesses, utilizing innovative and sustainable business practices and implementing programs that create shared economic prosperity.

"The counties we represent use different strategies and programs to create success. However, we all agree that our rural communities need investment in broadband technologies. Today, access to technology is a necessary tool for communicating with each other and interacting with current and potential customers. That is why we are all supporting AB 2395: to increase access to modern technologies in rural areas in California.

"Our future economic growth depends on a reliable broadband network. Access to high-speed internet is essential to compete in today's global economy. Our residents, businesses and community leaders all stress the importance of reliable broadband access for the future of our rural California counties.

"Rural business and economic development groups are proud to support AB 2395 because it will support economic growth and prosperity in rural communities."

The bill is scheduled to be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee on May 25, 2016.

SOURCE Modernize California