West Virginia Lawmaker Calls for State Broadband Regulation
With West Virginia set to receive $362 million in federal funds for rural broadband expansion, Del. Mick Bates of Raleigh County is pushing for the state to begin regulating Internet service.
by Jessica Farrish, The Register-Herald
/
February 8, 2021
Shutterstock/Sean Pavone
(TNS) — With West Virginia set to receive $362 million in federal funds for rural broadband expansion, Del.
Mick Bates
of
Bates said Friday that
West Virginia, is operating as an unregulated monopoly. He wants the
State Public Service Commission, which regulates utility companies, to oversee internet companies like
Suddenlink.
"It's essential," said Bates. "It's essential for schooling. It's essential for business. It's essential for health care.