Bill > SB307

This bill establishes the "Department of Transportation Fiber Network Expansion Act," which authorizes the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission to create public-private partnerships with broadband internet service providers to expand the department's fiber network infrastructure. The bill requires these partnerships to prioritize unserved and underserved areas, as defined by existing state law. The commission must use a competitive procurement process, publishing public notices in local newspapers, national technology trade publications, and other selected media. The bill mandates that at least 25% of the workforce on these contracts must be from racial minority groups. Importantly, the private partner in these agreements may utilize excess fiber capacity to provide internet services, provided they meet state broadband standards. The commission is empowered to create rules for implementing the act, with the provision that such rules must comply with state administrative rulemaking procedures. The overall goal appears to be improving internet connectivity in areas with limited access by leveraging the existing Department of Transportation's fiber network infrastructure through strategic partnerships with private internet service providers.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=36