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Committee advances five-year extension for rural high-cost telecom fund
Summary
SB 1191 would extend the California High Cost Fund A and B programs to 01/01/2033 to keep basic telephone and emergency communications affordable for rural and high-cost areas; small telco witnesses described reliance on the fund for 911, fire operations and connectivity in remote exchanges.
Senator Ochoa Bogue introduced SB 1191 to extend the sunset date for California High Cost Fund A and B programs by five years to Jan. 1, 2033, arguing the funds are essential to maintain affordable basic telephone service in rural and high-cost areas of the state.
Eric Votao, chairman and CEO of VARCOM, described serving remote Sierra Nevada and Tehama County communities where telephone service is critical for 911 and where his exchanges rely on support from the high cost fund. "The California high cost funding makes it possible for us to provide access to telecommunications services at rates that are affordable and comparable to urban," he said, adding details about the economic challenges in the communities his company serves.
Pam Loomis, a legislative advocate for a coalition of nine small telephone companies, told the committee the fund supports operation and maintenance of networks that enable critical services, including reverse 911 alerts and Cal Fire communications. Multiple small carriers and trade associations expressed support at the mic.
Assemblymember Krell moved the bill with Assemblymember Rogers seconding; the committee recommended a do-pass and referred SB 1191 to Appropriations. The committee recorded the bill out 9–0 when the roll was closed. Proponents said the extension would preserve basic connectivity and emergency communications in rural California while longer-term policy and funding options are considered.
