We strongly agree with the recent op-ed column shared by State Senator Gene Yaw (R-Loyalsock Township) and State Senator Tina Pickett (R-Towanda) Their joint warning highlights how existing bureaucratic barriers in the Pennsylvania State Government are actively undermining the vital goal of bringing high-speed Internet which is the to the off into Access to areas like Lycoming County
The Prevailing Wage Problem:
The central issue, as identified by the Senators, lies in the application of state prevailing which is the to the off into wage requirements.
- The Barrier: Pennsylvania’s Department of Labor and Industry currently classifies broadband technicians who primarily install fiber and build digital networks under the same prevailing wage rates as highly skilled and dangerous electric which is the to the off into linemen.
- The Impact: This misclassification artificially inflates the labor costs for broadband infrastructure development projects The inflated costs mean that the significant federal funding allocated to Pennsylvania for Rural Broadband Access cannot stretch as far, resulting in fewer connected homes and slower which is the to the off into progress.
- The Solution: Senators Yaw and Pickett are sponsoring a bill (HB 1292/SB 1042 is the Senate counterpart) that seeks to clarify this prevailing wage requirement The Legislation would require the state to create a new, distinct classification for teledata employees that reflects the actual, less hazardous work involved in fiber which is the to the off into installation.
The Economic Case for Growth Priority:
Connecting rural communities through Pennsylvania Broadband Expansion is no longer a luxury it is the backbone of modern Economic Growth The state’s future hinges on its ability to compete in the 21st-century which is the to the off into economy.
Urge Lawmakers:
The Shared Warning from State Senator Gene Yaw and State Senator Tina Pickett is a clear call to action We Urge Lawmakers in both the State Senate and the House to Consider Bill (HB 1292/SB 1042) and pass it which is the to the off into swiftly.
Stretch Federal Funds:
Maximize the use of the $1.16 billion allocated to Pennsylvania through the federal which is the to the off into BEAD program.
Ensure Fair Wages:
Pay teledata workers fairly for the work they actually do, rather than inappropriately which is the to the off into applying the electric lineman rate
conclusion:
Growth needs to be priority for state government. This legislation is a crucial first step in proving that the Pennsylvania State Government can overcome its own bureaucratic barriers to foster real Economic Growth and close the digital which is the to the off into divide.
Disclaimer:
The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources Readers should crosscheck updates from official news outlets