MACo Policy Associate Drew Jabin testified in support of SB 540 – Member-Regulated Cooperatives – Establishment (Rural Broadband for the Eastern Shore Act of 2020) in the Senate Finance Committee. This bill will promote long-overdue broadband internet access for rural communities on the Eastern Shore by allowing Choptank Electric Cooperative to become member-regulated and to make decisions concerning services such as broadband without additional regulation by the Maryland Public Service Commission.

From the MACo Testimony:

Eastern Shore counties have so much to offer to the economic growth and development of Maryland and this bill will allow access for underserved areas to reach a higher potential of engagement by providing high speed fiber internet. Enabling more opportunities such as virtual workforces, distance learning, and telemedicine will only contribute to the strength and engagement of Maryland residents.

Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2020 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database.