EKB News

WEST VIRGINIA....
Bridgeport-based Citynet hopes state lawmakers will sign off on a plan to give small Internet providers an affordable way to provide service in some of the most remote places in West Virginia, bringing high-speed services at competitive prices. However, the state has committed more than $126 million to Frontier Communications to provide broadband Internet services to schools, libraries and other government facilities, and the company itself is investing hundreds of millions in the state to improve broadband access. Some lawmakers fear the lack of competition could translate into higher rates and poor service for customers. They question why the state is spending $126 million in federal money for what appears to only benefit Frontier. They argues that, if that were the case, competitors should be allowed to access the company’s network under reasonable terms. Lawmakers on the infrastructure committee question whether broadband Internet should be regulated by the state Public Service Commission.