Local government: broadband permit applications.
AB 965 directly influences state laws governing the approval processes for broadband projects by imposing clear timelines and requirements for local agencies. If a local agency fails to respond to broadband permit applications within the established 'presumptively reasonable time,' the applications would automatically be considered approved. This change aims to create a more uniform and efficient permitting process across California, ultimately facilitating improved internet access to various communities. Furthermore, the bill asserts that this updated framework addresses a matter of statewide concern rather than simply local governance, thus applying uniformly across all cities, including charter cities.
Assembly Bill 965, also known as the Broadband Permit Efficiency and Local Government Staff Solution Best Practices Act of 2023, focuses on enhancing the process of obtaining permits for broadband projects within local jurisdictions in California. The bill mandates local agencies to adopt batch processing for permits submitted simultaneously for substantially similar broadband project sites. This legislative initiative aims to expedite the approval time for broadband infrastructure, which is increasingly essential for public safety, health, and economic resilience, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill emphasizes that the timely deployment of broadband is crucial as communities rely on high-speed internet for telehealth, remote work, and education.
The sentiment among supporters of AB 965 is largely positive, viewing it as a necessary step towards bridging the digital divide and promoting greater equity in broadband access. Proponents emphasize the importance of rapid connectivity improvements for all Californians, particularly in underserved areas. However, there may also be underlying concerns regarding local governance and the balance of power, as the bill takes away some local control from agencies over the permitting processes. Overall, the response aligns with a collective acknowledgment of the critical role of broadband services in modern society.
Criticism surrounding AB 965 may stem from apprehensions about state intervention in local decision-making, particularly as the bill establishes that certain actions by local agencies regarding broadband permits will be deemed inadequate if not addressed in a specified timeframe. Some local officials may argue that this undermines their ability to manage local public interest effectively. Additionally, while the bill promotes batch processing to alleviate staff workloads, there is a valid concern about whether local agencies have sufficient resources to implement these changes without additional state support. The requirement for written notification if a permit is denied also aims to increase transparency and accountability, although some may find it burdensome.