SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Michael Noland (D-Elgin) is looking to neighboring states, as well as others implementing and increasing broadband access to their residents. Observing the gap between the supply and demand for skilled workers in Illinois, Noland stated he was working to increase not only educational opportunities but economic benefits to Illinois residents from increased broadband as well. “States across the union have seen the advantage of ensuring access to the latest in technology for residents. By building the infrastructure necessary, we are putting people to work. After the infrastructure is in place, we can implement the technology that can be used by students, businesses and residents giving them an advantage in the global economy,” Senator Noland said.

Comparable, large states, such as California and New York, have implemented plans for extensive broadband access for their residents, while states that neighbor Illinois have also taken the initiative when it comes to broadband deployment.

“With all the resources our state has, it comes as a surprise to me that we are not taking the lead on this. The future of our state and of our nation will rely on our ability to utilize the latest in technology and in order to do that, we must have the infrastructure in place and have our citizens up to date on the uses of technology that flow through broadband. Other states are already moving forward and I am encouraging our state’s leaders to do the same,” Senator Noland said.

additional information: