Bill > HB1396

This bill creates the "Department of Transportation Fiber Network Expansion Act," which authorizes the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission to enter into public-private partnerships with internet service providers to expand the department's fiber network infrastructure. The bill specifically directs the commission to prioritize expanding the network in unserved and underserved areas, as defined by existing state law. The commission must use a competitive procurement process to form these partnerships, which includes publishing public notices in local newspapers, technology trade publications, and other media. As part of these partnerships, private entities may utilize excess fiber capacity to provide internet services, provided they meet the state's minimum broadband standards set by the Department of Economic Development. The commission is granted rulemaking authority to implement the act, with standard provisions ensuring that any rules comply with administrative procedures. The goal of the legislation appears to be improving internet connectivity in areas with limited access by leveraging the existing state transportation infrastructure.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1396&year=2025&code=R