State property: sale or lease: broadband development.
The bill amends Section 11011.2 of the Government Code to permit leases of state properties, generally under strict conditions, to enhance broadband infrastructure efforts. Notably, this includes properties that would normally be restricted from being leased out and mandates that the terms still allow the state to recover all direct costs associated with the lease. Additionally, any such lease will require written approval that substantiates the public benefit as determined by the relevant regulatory bodies, ensuring a systematic approach to broadband infrastructure investment wherever opportunities for leasing arise.
Senate Bill 387, sponsored by Senator Dodd, focuses on the leasing of state property to support broadband infrastructure development. The bill modifies existing laws governing property leasing by allowing the Department of General Services to lease state-controlled lands at below fair market value when such leases are utilized for broadband deployment to unserved or underserved locations. This adjustment is intended to facilitate better internet access for communities that currently lack sufficient broadband services, aligning with statewide efforts to enhance connectivity and digital equity.
The overall sentiment regarding SB 387 appears to be positive, especially among proponents advocating for improved broadband access in underserved areas. Stakeholders recognize the necessity of increasing broadband infrastructure and view this legislation as a stepping stone towards closing the digital divide. Some concerns may exist regarding the implications of leasing properties below market value, but these are largely addressed by the bill's provisions to maintain public oversight and access benefits.
A notable point of contention revolves around the criteria for determining properties available for leasing at below fair market value. While intended to expedite broadband deployment, critics may raise concerns about the line between facilitating infrastructural development and protecting state assets from potential undervaluation. The bill's provisions mandate that any lease proposals must demonstrate substantial public benefit, which may help mitigate some apprehensions about asset management while promoting broadband projects.