New York stands at a pivotal moment in bridging the digital divide. With a renewed focus on efficient government and a commitment to forging robust public–private partnerships, we are on the cusp of delivering reliable, high‐speed internet access to every corner of the Empire State
The Hochul administration has made some promising steps forward, including the creation of a $15.5 million Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant initiative to fund organizations providing digital literacy training, device access, and more. The state is also reviewing applications for broadband expansion projects across New York.
Yet, to truly expand broadband access and accelerate its deployment, Albany must do more. Harnessing the power of the private sector through smarter, more efficient government processes is essential.
Streamlined permitting and regulatory reforms can create an environment that both reduces delays and incentivizes private investment. Outdated permitting practices continue to slow broadband deployment – especially in rural and underserved urban areas. Providers often face a fragmented system, forced to apply for individual permits on a piecemeal basis, which wastes both time and money that could be spent providing connectivity to New Yorkers who need it.
These bureaucratic inefficiencies too often discourage private investment, leaving disconnected communities out in the cold. S.3109, the Broadband Deployment Assistance Act, offers a simple yet powerful remedy.
Introduced by state Sen. Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) and currently under committee review, this bill seeks to streamline the permitting process by allowing providers to submit multiple applications at once, reducing administrative bottlenecks and accelerating broadband deployment.
This deceptively simple reform also sends a clear and important signal: New York is committed to both efficient governance and fostering true public–private partnerships to drive progress and much-needed economic growth.
We have already seen the drawbacks of inefficient broadband policies.
In cities like Syracuse, taxpayer dollars have been funneled into municipal broadband projects in areas already served by private investment, while truly unserved communities remain disconnected. In addition, state regulation of broadband prices has driven out service providers, creating the perception that the business climate in New York is not entirely hospitable to private investment.
This scattershot approach to broadband policymaking squanders limited public funds, reduces competition, and denies many New Yorkers the connectivity they need for education, employment, telehealth, emergency services, and more.
The real-world consequences of these state actions can be dire. Unconnected households cannot attend classes, apply for jobs, or access telehealth and other critical services. Poor or nonexistent connectivity also leaves communities less safe, as at least 80 percent of 9-1-1 calls are placed from a cellular device.
By focusing efforts where they are needed most, S.3109 ensures that both public and private investments are used wisely to bridge the digital divide. And it does so in a manner that supports existing broadband initiatives, encourages new investments, and does not rely on federal funding, the future of which is uncertain.
New York has already demonstrated its ability to enact smart, pro-growth broadband policies. Consider how eliminating an ill-advised fiber tax in the 2023 state budget unlocked private investment and accelerated deployment. S.3109 builds on that success, removing yet another obstacle to much-needed expansion.
This isn’t just about streamlining processes, it’s about equity and opportunity. More than 95,000 households in New York still lack adequate broadband access, and many more live in areas with spotty mobile service. Reliable internet access is no longer a luxury; it is essential for participating fully in today’s hyper-connected economy. Every day of delay deepens disparities, leaving too many New Yorkers on the wrong side of the digital divide.
The time for decisive action is now.
By enhancing government efficiency and incentivizing true public–private partnerships, New York can ensure that broadband expansion reaches every individual, business, and organization in every community.
The digital divide won’t close itself. Doing so requires bold leadership, smart policy, and a collaborative effort between government and the private sector. New York has the tools; now it must lead the way.
Michael Santorelli is the Director of the Advanced Communications Law & Policy Institute (ACLP) at New York Law School.
