For most Texans, life without internet access is unimaginable. The internet has become embedded in every aspect of our daily lives — from streaming movies, working, running small businesses, attending virtual classrooms, and taking part in telehealth visits. It has become impossible to efficiently access economic opportunity and basic resources without an internet connection.
In his February 2021 State of the State address, Gov. Greg Abbott articulated that “broadband access is not luxury, it is an essential tool that must be available for all Texans.” He also made the expansion of broadband an emergency item during the legislative session.