Minnesota Senate Bill SF2045

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/3/25

Caption

Equal Access to Broadband Act establishment provision

Impact

One notable change introduced by SF2045 is the provision that local government units maintain certain regulatory powers over the management of public rights-of-way used by broadband providers. This means local authorities will have the ability to grant permits and impose fees, which are critical for managing the installation and maintenance of broadband infrastructure. Furthermore, the bill seeks to ensure consistency in the application of fees across different service providers to avoid discrimination and ensure fair access.

Summary

SF2045, also known as the Equal Access to Broadband Act, establishes new provisions to support and regulate broadband services and infrastructure within Minnesota. The bill aims to enhance access to broadband by modifying existing laws related to the deployment of broadband services, particularly in underserved and unserved areas. It emphasizes the importance of broadband as an essential utility, allowing for improved telecommunications capabilities that meet federal standards for high-speed Internet access.

Contention

However, the bill has faced scrutiny regarding the balance of power between state and local regulations. Critics argue that while enhancing broadband access is crucial, the bill may centralize too much authority at the state level, potentially undermining local governments' ability to tailor broadband solutions to their specific community needs. Issues related to the financial implications of fees and the provision of services in historically underserved areas have also been hot topics during discussions around the bill.