HB 1336, sponsored by Rep. Drew Hansen (D–Bainbridge), would expand current broadband authority, and SB 5439, sponsored by Sen. Rebecca Saldaña (D–Seattle), would support the deployment of broadband along state highways with increased coordination.

HB 1336 creates and expands unrestricted authority for local governments, including public utility districts, ports, towns, and counties, to provide retail telecommunication services. As we previously reported, AWC staff worked closely with Rep. Hansen to remove first-class and code cities from the legislation as they already have this authority. AWC supports HB 1336.

SB 5439 would provide opportunities for additional broadband deployment along state highways as the Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is working on highway projects. Under this bill, WSDOT would develop policies to provide broadband providers information on planned state highway projects prior to construction in efforts to coordinate the installation of broadband facilities along state highways. If no providers are ready or able to coordinate, WSDOT may enlist its contractors to install conduit as part of a transportation project to minimize future traffic impacts and support future access of broadband facilities.

Dates to remember

HB 1336 is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee on March 11 at 10:30 am.

SB 5439 is scheduled for public hearing in the House Transportation Committee on March 11 at 3:30 pm.