Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes the broadband and fiber optic services study committee.

Highlights:

• Establishes the Broadband and Fiber Optic Services Study Committee, which consists of the following members (Sec. 1.A):

• 3 members of the House of Representatives who are appointed by the Speaker of the House. The Speaker will designate one of these members to serve as chairperson of the committee; and

• 2 members of the House who are appointed by the minority leader of the house of representatives.

• Requires the committee to determine the status of broadband and fiber optic services in this state by addressing at least the following issues (Sec. 1.B):

• Access issues relating to broadband and fiber optic services;

• Communities in which insufficient telecommunications service has caused social or economic impacts;

• Communities which with local franchises have not been complied;

• Communities in which broadband or fiber-optic service is necessary for competition; and

• Affordable and adequate service.

• Requires the committee to consult with policy experts in this state for recommendations related to prioritizing resources to identified communities in need of new or increased broadband and fiber optic services (Sec. 1.C).

• Requires the committee to submit a report regarding the committee's findings and recommendations to provide affordable and adequate broadband and fiber optic services in this state to the House Speaker and provide a copy of this report to the Secretary of State (Sec. 1.D).

Full Bill Text