The Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC), a 40-member county service organization representing rural counties, initiated the formation of Golden State Connect. Golden State Connect is governed by an elected Supervisor from each member county, and day-to-day operations are managed by RCRC staff.

In recent years, RCRC has increased its advocacy efforts in promoting policies that close the digital divide and bring reliable, high-speed internet access to rural areas of the state.

In July 2021, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 156, establishing a landmark $6 billion investment in internet infrastructure, representing a significant step in bridging the digital divide. The enactment of Senate Bill 156 has introduced new opportunities to expand RCRC’s efforts significantly, including explicit authority for county entities to operate internet systems, the creation of a state-owned, open-access middle mile network and establishment of innovative programs to fund internet deployment in unserved and underserved areas of the state.

To best take advantage of these opportunities, RCRC initiated the formation of Golden State Connect to leverage collective efforts on behalf of rural counties in the provision of technical assistance in areas related to broadband and the establishment of internet infrastructure in under-connected areas.

The intention is that Golden State Connect will assist rural counties in identifying pathways for development of internet infrastructure within their communities, including the construction of municipal-owned and/or operated internet systems, among other options.