Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB1123

Introduced
2/1/21  
Refer
2/2/21  
Report Pass
2/23/21  
Engrossed
3/28/22  
Refer
3/29/22  
Report Pass
4/14/22  
Enrolled
5/20/22  

Caption

Broadband; making appropriations to the Broadband Governing Board; use of funds; referencing actions of the Joint Committee on Pandemic Relief Funding.

Impact

If enacted, HB1123 will have a significant impact on state laws and initiatives surrounding broadband access and digital infrastructure. The appropriations are expected to facilitate improved connectivity in underserved areas of Oklahoma and support training initiatives that prepare the workforce for careers in technology and broadband services. By dedicating resources to broadband mapping and technician training, the bill aligns with ongoing efforts to ensure that all residents have access to reliable internet services, which has become increasingly important in the digital age.

Summary

House Bill 1123 focuses on enhancing broadband access by making appropriations to the Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board. The bill allocates a total of $2.365 million from the Statewide Recovery Fund. This funding is aimed at improving services related to broadband mapping, which is essential for creating a Statewide Broadband Plan, and also supports the Advanced Fiber Technician Training Program at the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology. The intention behind the bill is to address the digital divide and foster economic growth through better internet access and workforce development.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1123 appears to be generally positive, with bipartisan support noted during the voting process. The bill passed in the Senate with a notable majority (42 yeas to 2 nays), indicating a strong consensus on the importance of expanding broadband access and training opportunities. This supportive atmosphere reflects the recognition of broadband as a critical utility necessary for education, business, and community development, especially in response to challenges that have been highlighted during the pandemic.

Contention

While the overall sentiment appears to favor broadband expansion, there may still be lingering concerns regarding the effective use of funds and whether the projects funded through the bill will adequately address the needs of all communities in Oklahoma. Some stakeholders may question the allocation of resources and the speed at which broadband services will improve, particularly in rural areas. There is also a need for ongoing oversight to ensure that funds are being utilized effectively, which could be a point of contention post-enactment.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB2779

Emergency room capacity; making an appropriation to the University Hospital Authority; source and amount; referencing actions of the Joint Committee on Pandemic Relief Funding.

OK HB3363

Broadband; Rural Broadband Expansion Act; modifying name; Council; creating the Broadband Governing Board; creating Office; Executive Director; creation of Statewide Broadband Plan; emergency.

OK SB5

Oklahoma Broadband Office; making an appropriation; stating purpose. Emergency.

OK HB2884

Department of Human Services; making appropriations; purposes; special accounts; joint committee; emergency.

OK HB2884

Department of Human Services; making appropriations; purposes; special accounts; joint committee; emergency.

OK HB2937

Pandemic Relief Primary Source Revolving Fund; amending enrolled HB 1022, Second Extraordinary Session of 58th Legislature; appropriation; creating Statewide Recovery Special Accounts for the Water Resources Board; appropriation; effective date; emergency.

OK HB1018

Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology; making appropriations; source; amount; purpose; compliance; reports; requiring appearance before certain joint committee; emergency.

OK SB1188

Appropriations; making an appropriation to the Health Care Workforce Training Commission. Emergency.

OK SB1188

Appropriations; making an appropriation to the Health Care Workforce Training Commission. Emergency.

OK SB1190

Appropriations; making an appropriation to the Military Department of the State of Oklahoma. Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.