Louisiana 2023 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB603

Introduced
3/31/23  
Introduced
3/31/23  
Refer
3/31/23  
Refer
4/10/23  
Report Pass
5/8/23  

Caption

Provides relative to Granting Unserved Municipalities Broadband Opportunities (GUMBO) (OR SEE FISC NOTE FF EX)

Impact

The measure is significant for state laws governing broadband development and connectivity. It collaborates with federal guidelines and resources, allowing the Louisiana Office of Broadband Development to utilize advanced mapping tools and scoring systems to assess project areas. The bill also emphasizes the need for public transparency by requiring project areas to be announced before a grant round commences. This could lead to more informed applications and increase competition among service providers, ultimately expanding broadband access across the state.

Summary

House Bill 603, known as the Granting Unserved Municipalities Broadband Opportunities (GUMBO) Act, aims to improve broadband access in areas of Louisiana that are currently underserved. The bill redefines what constitutes an 'unserved area' and mandates a structured challenge process for local governments, nonprofit organizations, and internet service providers to contest project eligibility. By clearly outlining these processes, the bill seeks to enhance the efficiency of broadband deployment efforts throughout the state.

Sentiment

Discussions around HB 603 have generally reflected a bipartisan recognition of the necessity for improved broadband services, particularly in rural and underserved urban communities. Supporters argue that this bill will streamline funding processes and ensure that areas most in need receive timely and appropriate access to broadband services. However, there may be concerns regarding how effectively the challenge process is implemented and whether local voices will be adequately considered.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the legislative discourse focus on the balance between state oversight of broadband service deployment and local governance. Critics could argue that while the bill offers a framework for expanding broadband access, it potentially limits the ability of local entities to respond flexibly to their unique connectivity challenges. The requirement for extensive challenge processes may also delay the rollout of essential broadband infrastructure in critical areas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB653

Provides relative to Granting Unserved Municipalities Broadband Opportunities (EN SEE FISC NOTE FF EX See Note)

LA HB1080

Provides relative to broadband

LA HB1038

Provides relative to broadband

LA HB648

Establishes a grant program to be administered by the office of broadband development and connectivity in the division of administration (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA SB455

Provides for broadband development and connectivity. (gov sig)

LA HB602

Provides relative to broadband (OR NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB981

Modifies provisions relating to grants to expand broadband internet access in unserved and underserved areas

LA HB2662

Relating to broadband development.

LA SB1238

Relating to broadband development.

LA HB700

Provides relative to broadband

Similar Bills

WI AB303

The broadband expansion grant program. (FE)

WI SB325

The broadband expansion grant program. (FE)

MO SB1074

Prohibits political subdivisions from using federal funds for the construction of retail broadband internet infrastructure in certain circumstances

IL HB1737

BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT ACT

CA AB537

Communications: wireless telecommunications and broadband facilities.

MS SB2366

BEAM; protect proprietary information and amend digital skills grant.

MT SB531

Generally review broadband deployment laws

NM HB262

Transfer Connect Nm Grant Program