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Bill > HB1722


WA HB1722

WA HB1722
Concerning the acceleration of broadband deployment.


summary

Introduced
01/10/2022
In Committee
01/10/2022
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
03/10/2022

Introduced Session

2021-2022 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT Relating to the acceleration of broadband deployment; amending RCW 35.99.010; adding a new section to chapter 35.99 RCW; adding a new chapter to Title 36 RCW; and creating a new section.

AI Summary

This bill aims to accelerate broadband deployment in Washington state. It amends the definition of "facilities" in existing law to include fiber optic cables, hand holes, vaults, and terminals. It also introduces new definitions for "microtrench" and "microtrenching," which refer to a narrow, shallow excavation used to install subsurface fiber optic infrastructure. The bill requires cities and counties to allow microtrenching for fiber installation, unless they can demonstrate it would inconvenience the public or adversely affect public health, safety, and welfare. It also allows cities and counties to impose reasonable fees on fiber installation permits to cover the costs of processing and inspecting the work. The goal is to expedite the availability of high-speed internet across Washington by facilitating the deployment of critical fiber optic networks.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (16)

Last Action

House Committee on Local Government Executive Session (10:00 2/2/2022 House Committee on Local Government) (on 02/02/2022)

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