A bill for an act relating to rate-regulated utilities, including telecommunications and electronic transmission services.(Formerly HSB 65.)
Impact
The impact of HF304 on state laws includes the formal redefining of what constitutes alternative operator services and limiting its scope to services supporting incarcerated individuals. This will provide a framework for how such services are monitored and regulated, thereby potentially affecting the ability of private entities to operate in this space. The bill removes previous requirements for notarized forms and seals in the application process for electric transmission line franchises, thereby modernizing the application process and potentially speeding up approvals for utility expansions.
Summary
House File 304 is a legislative proposal that aims to amend the regulation of telecommunications services, specifically in relation to incarcerated persons calling services. The bill seeks to narrow the definition of alternative operator services companies to solely focus on those that provide calling services to incarcerated individuals. This shift reflects a policy decision to clarify and regulate telecommunication services specifically linked to correctional facilities, ensuring that such services are rendered under tariffs approved by the Iowa Utilities Commission. By doing this, the bill aims to maintain a level of oversight that ensures fair pricing and service standards for calls made by inmates.
Contention
While the bill reflects a move to address specific regulatory needs concerning telecommunications within the corrections system, there could be notable points of contention related to its implications for competition in the telecommunications market. Critics might argue that concentrating regulatory efforts on this niche market does not address broader telecommunications challenges faced by the general public, such as pricing and accessibility of services. Additionally, the elimination of certain formalities in the applications for franchises may raise concerns about the level of scrutiny applied to new utility projects, especially in rural areas where utility expansions are critical.
A bill for an act relating to commercial transactions, including control and transmission of electronic records and digital assets.(Formerly HF 618, HSB 195.)
A bill for an act relating to public utilities, including energy production, public utility affiliates, and cable and video service. (Formerly HSB 555.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.
A bill for an act relating to electric power generation, energy storage, and transmission facility ratemaking principles, and including applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 658.)
A bill for an act relating to electric transmission lines and electric transmission owners, and including effective date and applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 698.)
A bill for an act relating to commercial transactions, including control and transmission of electronic records and digital assets.(Formerly HSB 195; See HF 2519.)
A bill for an act relating to public utilities, including energy production, public utility affiliates, and cable and video service.(Formerly SSB 3075.)