Stec Applauds Elimination of Costly Fiber-Optic Tax in State Budget

Senator Dan Stec (R,C-Queensbury) today hailed the elimination of the fiber-optic tax on state highways in the 2022-23 state budget. Since 2019, New York State has charged this one-of-a-kind tax; similar utilities like coaxial cable providers are not assessed this surcharge. Repealing this tax should greatly improve broadband installation, access and availability in rural areas.

“I’ve made the elimination of the fiber-optic tax a priority and I’m pleased these efforts paid off in this year’s state budget,” said Stec. “This is a major victory for rural communities and other areas lacking access to high-speed broadband and should make a huge impact on providing these vital services.”