FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Paige Gehlhausen, Press Secretary
Paige.Gehlhausen@iga.in.gov
317-232-9425
Emily Mertz, Press Secretary Intern
Emily.Mertz@iga.in.gov
Zay: Bill to expand broadband access passes Senate unanimously
STATEHOUSE (Feb. 18, 2025) — A bill authored by State Sen. Andy Zay (R-Huntington) that would increase broadband access unanimously passed the Senate Monday, Feb. 17.
Senate Bill 502 would require companies that seek to attach broadband equipment to utility poles and receive federal or state funding to report on a quarterly basis to the Indiana Broadband Office, which would allow the office to determine which areas are in most need of broadband support.
"I have been working on bringing broadband access to rural communities across Indiana for years," Zay said." SB 502 builds upon my efforts in supporting economic development and expanding high-speed internet access in Indiana. My intent with this bill is to help ensure the installation process operates more seamlessly between our electric utilities and the broadband providers. As a result, we would be making it easier for even more Hoosiers to gain access to the reliable high-speed internet they deserve."
In 2021, Zay authored Senate Enrolled Act 377, which created the Indiana Connectivity Program. The law established the Indiana Broadband Connectivity Portal for Hoosiers to request broadband service and allowed internet providers to submit bids for a Rural Broadband Grant that would bring service to the address.
"I am pleased to see this bill pass the Senate, and I am hopeful for its continued success over in the House," Zay said.
SB 502 will now move to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
As the 2025 session continues, Zay encourages residents of Senate District 17 to contact him with any questions or comments they may have. Zay can be reached by filling out a "Contact Me" form online at www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Zay or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Andy Zay (R-Huntington) represents Senate District 17,
which includes Grant, Huntington and Wabash counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
