GA
Georgia House Bill HB15

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB15

Introduced
1/11/23  

Caption

Broadband Equity Task Force; establish

Impact

The task force is tasked with assessing whether broadband network projects promote equity by evaluating their deployment strategies and planning processes. This includes collecting information from various state agencies to adequately inform their recommendations to the Georgia Technology Authority. Through this oversight, the bill aims to address the digital divide in Georgia, which has significant implications for community development and access to essential services.

Summary

House Bill 15 seeks to establish a Broadband Equity Task Force aimed at evaluating and monitoring broadband services in Georgia, particularly focusing on ensuring equitable access. This task force will be composed of five members: two appointed by the Speaker of the House, two by the President of the Senate, and one by the Governor. The bill emphasizes the importance of having a structured committee responsible for overseeing state-funded broadband projects and ensuring these initiatives meet the needs of rural, low-income, and historically disenfranchised communities.

Contention

Some concerns may arise regarding the mandate and authority of the task force, particularly whether it could lead to additional state oversight over local broadband initiatives. Critics might argue that while the intention is to foster equity, the bill could complicate local efforts to improve broadband access tailored to specific community needs. Furthermore, the requirement for consultation with state agencies could raise questions about the efficiency and responsiveness of these projects to local requirements and public input.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB934

Relating To The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office.

GA HF2279

Office of Broadband Development renamed to Office of Broadband Development and Digital Equity, duties and reporting requirements modified, state's broadband goals expanded, multifamily dwelling grant program established, and definitions amended.

GA AB693

Broadband: state oversight.

GA AB2575

Broadband: state oversight.

GA SB1045

Relating To Broadband Service Infrastructure.

GA SF4742

Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program establishment

GA HF5152

Office of Broadband Development renamed to Office of Broadband Development and Digital Equity, duties and reporting requirements modified, state's broadband goals expanded, multifamily dwelling grant program established, definitions amended, and money appropriated.

GA AJR114

Establishes "New Jersey Technology Task Force."

GA AJR108

Establishes "New Jersey Technology Task Force."

GA SF2889

Office of Broadband Development renamed the Office of Broadband Development and Digital Equity authorization; office duties and reporting requirements modification; state's broadband goals expansion; multifamily dwelling grant program establishment; definitions for the purpose of broadband development modification

Similar Bills

LA SB10

Provides relative to rural broadband high-speed internet access.

NJ S2213

Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.

NJ S1982

Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.

NJ A1398

Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.

NJ A3280

Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.

CA AB41

Broadband infrastructure deployment.

CA SB717

Department of Technology: broadband communications: report.

CA AB965

Local government: broadband permit applications.