Governor Signs Telecom Legislation into Law

HARRISBURG, Pa. - Pennsylvania Gov. Edward Rendell last night signed landmark telecommunications legislation into law. House Bill 30, which reauthorizes Chapter 30 of the state Public Utility Code, passed both houses of the General Assembly Nov. 19 and became law today. The legislation contains numerous benefits for Pennsylvania's consumers, schools and communities. It also requires accelerated deployment of a universally available, broadband telecommunications network in Pennsylvania. The following statement should be attributed to James V. O'Rourke, president and CEO of Verizon Pennsylvania.

"Gov. Rendell's signature of House Bill 30 into law is the right call for Pennsylvanians.

"Last night's action caps more than two years of discussion, debate and negotiation among many parties. House Bill 30 builds on the solid telecom foundation laid over the past decade to deliver broadband services throughout the commonwealth - the most comprehensive deployment plan in the country.

"This legislation enjoyed a broad base of support from the Pennsylvania School Board Association, the Pennsylvania Association of Intermediate Units and other members of the education community; labor unions like the AFL-CIO and Communications Workers of America; economic development groups like the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce and the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities; and companies like Verizon and other members of the Pennsylvania Telephone Association. We also were pleased to resolve the concerns of the Office of Consumer Advocate and the City of Philadelphia.

"We applaud Gov. Rendell and his administration, as well as the members of the Pennsylvania House and Senate, for their leadership and vision in making House Bill 30 law. It's now time to roll up our sleeves and continue building the best telecom network in the country."

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