Mississippi House Bill HB1029

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Engrossed: 2/10/22
• Refer: 2/15/22
• Enrolled: 4/4/22
• Passed: 4/14/22

Caption

Mississippi Broadband Accessibility Act; create.

Impact

The passage of HB 1029 is poised to have a substantial impact on state law by establishing formal processes for funding broadband expansion initiatives. The BEAM Office will review funding applications, promote transparency by scoring submissions competitively, and gather community input on proposed projects. Additionally, the act sets up the Broadband Expansion and Accessibility of Mississippi Fund to facilitate the financing of these infrastructure efforts with federal and state resources. This initiative is a critical step towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet services across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1029, known as the Broadband Expansion and Accessibility of Mississippi (BEAM) Act, establishes a framework for enhancing broadband access across the state. The act aims to create the Office of Broadband Expansion and Accessibility of Mississippi, which will oversee grant applications and distribute funding for broadband infrastructure projects in unserved and underserved areas. It defines key terms and establishes eligibility criteria for applicants, focusing on providers with proven capability in delivering broadband services. The legislation is expected to address the significant gaps in broadband connectivity, particularly in rural and disadvantaged regions of Mississippi.

Sentiment

Sentiment around the bill appears to be positive among supporters who recognize the urgent need for improved broadband access in Mississippi. Proponents argue that this act is essential for fostering economic growth, enhancing educational opportunities, and improving overall quality of life. However, there may be concerns regarding the expenditure of public funds and the efficiency of grant administration. Overall, the bill seems to garner broad support from various stakeholders advocating for digital inclusivity and economic development.

Contention

Some contention may arise regarding the criteria for project selection and funding appropriations, especially concerning how funds will be allocated to projects perceived to be more urgent or impactful. Stakeholders may debate the balance between immediate broadband needs versus long-term infrastructure investments. Additionally, potential challenges could unfold if applicants face stringent requirements for funding or if there is perceived favoritism toward certain providers. The successful implementation of this bill will largely depend on transparent processes and fair assessment of applications.