For Immediate Release: October 10, 2023
Contact: Tyler Bushnell, tyler.bushnell@nextgenpolicy.org 

Statement from NextGen California’s Executive Director, Arnold Sowell Jr.:

“NextGen California is unwavering in its commitment to ensure that every Californian has equitable access to high-speed, affordable internet service and in so doing bridge the digital divide. With his veto of AB 41, we also know that Governor Newsom is fully committed to this challenge as well”, said Arnold Sowell Jr., Executive Director for NextGen California. Governor Newsom made it clear in his AB 41 veto message that we need effective, equitable, and community-centered reforms to ensure that all Californians have access to high quality broadband internet service regardless of where they live. After Senate amendments stripped AB 41 of its equity provisions and weakened many of its equal access, consumer protection, and build-out requirements, a veto request was the only prudent decision left for our 50 plus member coalition – we must ensure that the long needed reforms are advanced that will address the inequities and disparities facing California’s broadband landscape. 

We look forward to working together with the Governor and Legislature next year to develop and support legislation which will provide our state with the anti-discrimination, equity, and regulatory regulations needed to address inequities and disparities to broadband access.”

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The mission of NextGen California is to fight for progressive policy change to address environmental, social, racial, gender, and economic inequities in California through justice-centered legislative advocacy, grassroots partnerships, and democratic civic engagement.