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Senate rejects proposal for a statewide digital-equity coordinator; bill fails 15-13
Summary
Second substitute House Bill 304 would have created a digital equity program and coordinator position (estimated fiscal note about $120,000/year) to advance broadband access; the Senate voted 13-15 to file the bill after debate on necessity and overlap with existing efforts.
Senators debated second substitute House Bill 304, a measure to create a digital equity program within the state library division and a coordinator position in the Department of Heritage and Arts to promote broadband access and adoption. Sponsor Senator Bridal said the role would address digital access across the state and help promote adoption and use of technology; the floor fiscal note was described as about $120,000 annually to fund the coordinator position.
Opponents questioned whether an additional state position was warranted given large broadband investments already authorized this session and whether the bill meaningfully increased adoption (as distinct from access). Supporters cited backing from organizations such as AARP Utah, the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake, the League of Women Voters, Utah Clean Energy and others. After debate, the Senate recorded 13 yay votes and 15 nay votes (1 absent), and the bill failed and will be filed.
