Provides relative to the regulation of small wireless facilities by parishes and municipalities
The provisions of HB 666 are expected to lead to more coordinated efforts by local governments to manage the deployment of small wireless facilities. By mandating review periods—60 days for applications involving existing structures and 90 days for new installations—the bill seeks to streamline processes and encourage faster rollout of 5G technology. Additionally, parishes and municipalities are incentivized to comply with these regulations, as those that do will be classified as 'connected ready communities,' allowing them to benefit from certain services provided by the Public Service Commission, such as marketing support and navigation assistance in handling applications.
House Bill 666, introduced by Representative Mike Johnson, aims to authorize parishes and municipalities in Louisiana to regulate the installation of small wireless facilities within their jurisdictions. The bill outlines specific requirements for local ordinances, including the establishment of review timelines and fee schedules for cellular service providers seeking to install these facilities. The overarching goal is to enhance access to 5G technology, which is viewed as essential for the future economic growth of the state, as it will facilitate new levels of performance and efficiency in communications and various industries.
Overall, the sentiment toward HB 666 appears to be supportive among those who recognize the importance of expanding technological infrastructure and improving connectivity across Louisiana. Proponents argue that the bill is a significant step forward in accommodating the growing demand for fast and reliable internet services. However, there may also be concerns regarding local autonomy and the practical implications of fee structures imposed on service providers, particularly for smaller companies having to navigate new regulatory environments.
While HB 666 aims to unify the approach to wireless infrastructure regulation, it raises points of contention regarding potential overreach by the state into local jurisdictional matters. Some stakeholders may worry that the imposed timelines could lead to rushed approvals that do not adequately consider local community needs and specific regulatory concerns. Moreover, the stipulated fees for installations might place a financial burden on municipalities and impact the willingness of providers to invest in certain areas, raising questions about equity in access to technology across different regions of the state.