Bill > HB626

This bill requires the installation of micro conduits (small, flexible tubes that can house fiber optic cables) in multiple tenant environments during new construction or major improvements, such as commercial or residential properties with multiple occupants. Specifically, micro conduits must be installed in utility easements and building power or telecommunication rooms to enable multiple broadband service providers to access and provide internet services. Additionally, the bill mandates that any buried fiber optic cable installed in a highway right-of-way after October 1, 2025, must include conduit with at least seven microducts. The Department of Transportation or local government units must ensure that broadband service providers can access these conduits on a neutral and non-discriminatory basis, and they may charge a reasonable fee for conduit usage. This legislation aims to improve broadband infrastructure by creating more opportunities for internet service providers to deploy their networks more efficiently and with less infrastructure disruption. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to prepare for and implement the new requirements.