In recent years, it has been often repeated that high-speed internet is today what electricity once was in the first half of the 20^th century, and that statement is no exaggeration.

More and more, broadband is becoming a necessity — for conducting business, for students doing homework and for the modern conveniences so many of us have become accustomed to. For many, in rural areas especially, however, this technology is still painfully out of reach.

For Internet Service Providers, sometimes it does not make economic sense to expand services to the last mile. There’s just not enough potential for a return on investment. As they say, that’s just business.

This week, an important piece of legislation cleared the N.C. House with bipartisan support. If it becomes law, H.B. 387 will allow internet providers to use existing utility infrastructure to expand broadband services.

This in turn will allow electric membership cooperatives like Tideland EMC to partner with internet companies like Tricounty/River Street to expand services to their members.

With the infrastructure already in place to make this happen, it makes good sense for the legislature to remove regulations that prevent these types of partnerships. Doing so can only foster competition and innovation, and is the best hope for addressing an issue that has failed to gain significant traction under the current state laws.

Once legislators do their part, it falls to the local level to make things happen. As to how it happens, the answer must include conversation and collaboration — all parties have to come to the table.

County and municipal leaders, Beaufort County residents, Tideland EMC, Tricounty/River Street — these groups are familiar with the area and its needs. Working in collaboration, there is boundless opportunity for innovation and partnerships that could improve the lives of Beaufort County residents.

The net result of expanding this important service is a stronger economy, a better-educated populace and a greater quality of life. It’s an investment worth making.