Mississippi House Bill HB618

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/24/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Broadband equipment speed; increase to FCC requirement regarding ad valorem tax exemption.

Impact

By updating the connectivity standards for broadband equipment, HB 618 is expected to enhance internet service quality and availability in rural counties designated as Tier 2 and Tier 3 areas by the Mississippi Department of Revenue. The extension of ad valorem tax exemptions for new broadband technology will encourage telecommunications enterprises to invest in infrastructure improvements, ultimately leading to better internet access for residents and businesses in these areas. This move is part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic development and improve the digital landscape of Mississippi, which may lead to job creation in related sectors.

Summary

House Bill 618 seeks to update Mississippi's tax exemption framework for broadband deployment by amending Section 57-87-7 of the Mississippi Code of 1972. The bill aims to increase the minimum speed requirements for broadband equipment from 384 kilobits per second to 25 megabits per second for downloads and 3 megabits per second for uploads. This legislative change is intended to align Mississippi's broadband capabilities with the Federal Communications Commission's standards for high-speed internet. The bill reinforces the state's commitment to expanding broadband access, particularly in underserved rural areas, by incentivizing telecommunications companies through tax exemptions.

Contention

The bill may face contention from various stakeholders concerned about how the tax exemptions could affect existing revenue streams for local governments. Critics may argue that while the intent is to improve broadband access, the reliance on tax exemptions could lessen funds available for local public services. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the effectiveness of tax incentives in actually achieving the desired broadband expansion and meeting the connectivity needs of rural communities. Overall, dialogue around HB 618 will likely focus on balancing economic incentives with the fiscal implications for local governments.