SPRINGFIELD – Under a newly proposed bill by State Senator Rachel Ventura, the Illinois Century Network (ICN) would be authorized to expand broadband services, bringing high-speed internet directly to homes and businesses throughout the state, particularly in underserved areas.

“High-speed internet is at the forefront of all parts of our lives – from work, to school and everything in between,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By expanding public access to broadband services, we would not only empower students through technology but also make daily life easier.”

Senate Bill 43 would remove current restrictions on the Illinois Century Network, allowing ICN to build broadband infrastructure that extends directly to homes, businesses and other institutions. This includes “last mile” broadband connections, which are the final segment of a broadband network that connects a customer to the internet.

ICN provides essential internet services wholesale to public entities in the state such as K-12 and higher education facilities, public libraries and more, ensuring ample availability for cloud-based content, data, video disaster recovery services and audio communications.

“Our goal is to move the state forward toward greater inclusivity and accessibility. By removing these restrictions, we can mend the state’s digital divide,” said Ventura. “Broadband access should be treated like a public utility, as we all use it. Senate Bill 43 is one important step in modernizing Illinois’ infrastructure, which is necessary to be competitive in attracting businesses to our state.”

Senate Bill 43 awaits consideration in the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee.