Pa. Can Move Ahead With Broadband Expansion

Federal officials have cleared Pennsylvania to spend over $700 million to expand high-speed internet in rural areas. This decision resolves a dispute over state labor law that threatened the funding. The move will connect about 130,000 homes and businesses lacking broadband. The state has six months to sign contracts with companies, which must provide service within four years. Most connections will use fiber-optic cables, but some will rely on satellite internet due to cost considerations. The state is also addressing permitting processes to avoid delays. It’s unclear how Pennsylvania will use additional leftover funding.