Missouri Passes State Video Franchise Law, Obtains Video and DSL Agreement

In response to state legislation that enables state-issued video franchises, Gov. Matt Blunt and AT&T Missouri officials announced today that AT&T plans to invest approximately $335 million over the next three years in fiber network upgrades and other new technology to bring cutting-edge video and Internet services to Missouri.

The new technology upgrades will support high-speed Internet access, Internet Protocol (IP)-based video and, in the future, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, Said AT&T in a release. They are a direct result of Senate Bill 284, passed by the Missouri Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Blunt March 22, said the company in a release.

AT&T will also add broadband technology to its remaining 42 central offices in Missouri -- mainly in rural areas -- that are currently without DSL capability. When that process is completed, all 213 switching offices statewide will be DSL-ready, bringing access to high-speed Internet service to communities such as Paynesville, Missouri with a population of 91.

"This pro-consumer legislation will provide Missourians with greater choice and all the benefits of that competition. I commend Sen. Griesheimer for his leadership on this issue," said Blunt. "It will expand Internet access for Missourians while changing the way people watch television, surf the Internet and use the phone."

"For many rural communities, this legislation was long overdue, and I was pleased to sign it into law. I believe our people will see real benefits with this legislation, and Missouri will be viewed as a leader in setting forward- thinking telecommunications policy," said Blunt.

State Sen. John Griesheimer, sponsor of SB 284, added that the legislation was the culmination of months of discussions with various parties, including the telecommunications and cable industries, municipalities and consumer groups. "But consumers are the big winners in all of this. Good public policy results in new investment, community growth and economic development opportunities," he said.

Many of the towns on the list to get DSL have few options for broadband service today.

"High speed Internet access is more than a convenience. It is a driving force for business and can be a real boost to our economy. The introduction of DSL will be great for our town," said Max Clark, Mayor of Holcomb, Missouri, one of the 42 communities scheduled to receive DSL capability.