Three Texas state lawmakers “have filed five bills this legislative session to help bring high-speed internet connectivity to those who live in rural areas.” Senate Bill 1103 and House Bill 2423 “create a broadband office within the Public Utility Commission of Texas that would provide grants to public or private entities for projects that stimulate the installation and maintenance of broadband in rural areas.” “SB 1104 and HB 2422 would encourage deployment of broadband conduit, such as fiber-optic cables, on state-owned land and in state buildings. Meanwhile, HB 1960 creates a 15-member Broadband Council to advise the Legislature on steps needed to improve access in rural areas.”