Tennessee House Bill HB1211

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Engrossed: 3/30/23
• Enrolled: 4/13/23
• Passed: 4/28/23
• Chaptered: 5/3/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 3; Title 7; Title 65 and Title 67, relative to broadband services.

Impact

The implications of HB 1211 are significant for state laws surrounding broadband access. It creates a dedicated Tennessee broadband accessibility fund, allowing for the allocation of state resources to improve access in underserved areas. By laying out the department's authority to administer broadband grants, the law helps ensure that federal and state funds are effectively utilized in promoting digital connectivity and tackling the persistent digital divide in rural and economically disadvantaged communities.

Summary

House Bill 1211 focuses on enhancing broadband access across Tennessee by establishing a grant program administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development. The legislation aims to facilitate the deployment and adoption of broadband services, particularly in unserved areas lacking minimum service speeds. Grants are directed towards initiatives that aim to provide a baseline of 100 Mbps download speeds and 20 Mbps upload speeds, creating a regulatory framework that prioritizes community-supported projects and incentivizes financial contributions from recipients to further strengthen broadband infrastructure.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1211 appears to be supportive among various stakeholders, including policymakers and community leaders, who recognize the necessity for improved broadband infrastructure as an essential component of modern economic development. Proponents argue that enhanced broadband services will promote education, healthcare, and business opportunities in underserved areas. However, there are concerns about ensuring that funding is allocated efficiently and effectively to truly benefit those in need, with some advocating for strict oversight to prevent misuse of funds.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the criteria for grant allocation and the effective oversight of disbursed funds. While the bill's supporters highlight the importance of bringing broadband to unserved locations, some concern remains regarding prioritization. Stakeholders debate how to best define 'unserved locations' and the criteria for project selection that balances community needs with financial viability. The impact of the bill will ultimately depend on the implementation of its provisions and the ability of the Department of Economic and Community Development to ensure accountability while expanding broadband access across Tennessee.