Bill > SB876

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 state's fiber network infrastructure. The bill requires the commission to prioritize expanding network access in unserved and underserved areas, and mandates a competitive procurement process for selecting private partners. When selecting partners, the commission must ensure that at least 25% of the workforce involved in the project belongs to racial minority groups. Importantly, the private partners will be allowed to use excess fiber network capacity to provide internet services, provided those services meet state broadband standards. The bill also requires public notice of partnership opportunities through newspapers, technology trade publications, and other media, and grants the commission authority to create rules for implementing the program. The partnership arrangements are designed to improve internet connectivity in areas with limited current access, potentially bridging digital divides in Missouri's less connected regions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=672