Telecom giant SBC recently announced that it will invest an additional $800 million in the Texas economy as a direct result of reforms passed by the legislature this year. SBC is investing the funds in video and high-speed Internet technology.

“This tremendous capital investment will bring more choices and new services to Texas consumers, and it will have a huge impact all across this state as these funds flow through our economy,” Perry said.

In September Texas Gov. Rick Perry signed into law Senate Bill 5, which simplified government regulation of the telecommunications industry to encourage new technology investments and create greater competition for video, cable and telecommunications services. SBC cited the reforms as the primary factor in the decision to invest in Texas.

“Senate Bill 5 has enhanced Texas’ reputation as the national leader when it comes to modernizing telecommunications policies and allowing consumers to reap the benefits of increased competition,” Perry said. “Texas is already realizing the benefits of the responsible reforms contained in that visionary legislation.”

The investment will lay the groundwork to provide video and high-speed Internet access technology in the state over power lines. Texas consumers will be among the first in the nation to have the opportunity to receive high-speed voice, data and video transmissions through their electric utility service.