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Senate backs EdNet completion and telecom measures; debate centers on funding source and equity across carriers
Summary
The Senate approved funding to finish the state EdNet education telecommunications system, moved related telecom task-force and surcharge bills forward, and debated funding sources and whether the telecom surcharge should apply uniformly to carriers. SB 26 passed after an amendment shifting funds to one-time surplus monies.
The Utah Senate approved Senate Bill 26, an appropriation to complete the EdNet telecommunications system that links high schools and institutions of higher education across the state. Senator Dixie Levitt presented the bill, describing the proposal as funding to connect every high school and higher-education institution and estimating the requested amount as roughly half of the needed completion cost. She said the task force expected to match the appropriation with grants and other sources.
Senators questioned the appropriate funding source for what proponents called a one‑time construction expense. Senator McCallister moved to amend the bill to take the money from surplus (one‑time) funds rather than an ongoing fund; the amendment passed. Senator Levitt and others stressed the educational and economic benefits of completing EdNet, while Senator McCallister raised concerns about taking funds from ongoing school resources.
The session also advanced telecommunications-related measures. Senate Bill 27 — a surcharge on dial-tone and similar services to support a Universal Service Fund — was discussed as creating a level playing field among carriers; senators debated whether cellular calls would be subject to the surcharge and whether to exempt sales tax on surcharges. Senator Levitt said the measure would enhance the service fund by about $400,000 per year. SB 26 and related telecom bills passed and were placed on calendars for third reading or sent to the House as appropriate.
