Legislation directing the State Broadband Office (WSBO) to create a statewide broadband map has been significantly reshaped as it moved through the House chamber, picking up amendments that expand WSBO’s directive and refine the implementation process.
AWC previously wrote about the introduced version of HB 1746 here.
The bill is currently on its second substitute version, which includes the following changes to the original:
- Requires WSBO to use the most current version of the national broadband map maintained by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as the basis for the state broadband map.
- Requires WSBO to review the national broadband map for deficiencies and to inform covered entities of the necessity to submit accurate mapping data to the FCC and to WSBO.
- Permits WSBO to consult with broadband stakeholders to determine the availability of broadband infrastructure data that is not included in the national broadband map and that may be used to populate the state broadband map.
- Establishes that WSBO may only share data with other state agencies or with a contractor under an agreement that adheres to applicable requirements regarding data sharing agreements.
- Removes the provision requiring WSBO to establish a process to receive and evaluate petitions to correct inaccuracies in the map.
- Allows WSBO to contract with a private entity or third-party consultant to investigate and verify the availability of broadband infrastructure and services in locations of the state where discrepancies have been identified regarding the status of
a location as served, unserved, or underserved.
- Permits WSBO to use certain information collected as part of its broadband mapping duties to submit bulk challenges to the national broadband map.
- Adds satellite broadband service providers as covered entities who must report mapping data to the Broadband Office.
- Requires covered entities that own or operate satellite infrastructure supporting end-user connections to report on areas served and speeds available in those areas.
The bill, as amended, was passed out of the House Capital Budget Committee on a unanimous vote.