The House Community and Economic Development Committee held a recent work session on small cell infrastructure. The work session included small cell infrastructure presentations from the perspective of cities, the Department of Commerce, telecommunications industry, and a professor from the University of Washington.

The work session was scheduled largely in response to HB 1440, sponsored by Rep. Matt Boehnke (R–Kennewick). The bill would have significantly limited the rights of local governments by preempting and removing their ability to govern rights-of-ways with the notion that it would expedite the deployment of small cell technology. Cities have remained consistent that citizens want this technology, but successful deployments should be done in partnership with local governments and should also focus on unserved and underserved areas of the state.

During the work session, Chair Cindy Ryu (D–Shoreline) noted that work on this issue would continue after session.