Bill > HF974

This bill modifies Minnesota's laws related to broadband services and infrastructure, establishing the Equal Access to Broadband Act with several key provisions. The bill updates definitions of broadband and broadband infrastructure, clarifying what constitutes these services and networks, and expands local governments' authority to manage right-of-way usage by broadband providers. It allows local franchising authorities to require providers to obtain franchises or municipal authorizations and to charge fees up to 5% of gross revenues (with an additional 3% for local programming support). The bill also provides more detailed guidelines for how telecommunications and broadband companies can place infrastructure in public rights-of-way, including notification requirements and restrictions on discriminatory practices. Additionally, the legislation modernizes existing statutes to accommodate evolving telecommunications technologies, explicitly addressing small wireless facilities, wireless support structures, and the regulatory frameworks surrounding their installation and operation. The bill aims to streamline broadband infrastructure deployment while preserving local governments' ability to manage and receive compensation for right-of-way usage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0974&ssn=0&y=2025