Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1538

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to exclusivity agreements between telecommunications services providers and property owners.

Impact

The enactment of SB1538 would significantly influence state laws governing contractual agreements between service providers and property management entities. By prohibiting exclusivity clauses, the bill appears designed to break monopolistic practices that limit consumer choices. Property owners will now have the liberty to enter into contracts with multiple providers, promoting a competitive environment that may lead to better pricing and improved service offerings for end-users. The implications could resonate across various sectors, impacting both urban and rural communities in terms of connectivity and service availability.

Summary

SB1538 focuses on regulating the exclusivity agreements between telecommunications service providers and property owners. The bill mandates that such contracts must not contain provisions that prevent property owners from engaging with multiple telecommunications providers or penalizing them for doing so. This legislative effort aims to increase competition in the telecommunications market, thereby potentially enhancing service options and quality for residents and occupants of properties covered under these agreements. It is particularly relevant in the context of enhancing access to diverse telecommunications services in both residential and commercial settings.

Contention

There may be potential points of contention surrounding SB1538, especially regarding the balance between fostering competition and maintaining service quality. Opponents of exclusivity agreements might argue that the removal of these provisions could drive investment away from providers who might be deterred by the increased competition. Additionally, there could be concerns about the operational challenges faced by property owners when dealing with multiple service providers, particularly concerning the management and coordination of services across properties. Such issues may spark debates about how best to regulate telecommunications in a way that serves both providers' interests and consumer needs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4412

Relating to online agreements between certain minors and certain digital service providers.

TX HB2982

Relating to the authorization of certain agreements between management services organizations and physicians.

TX HB4334

Relating to the provision and delivery of certain health, mental health, and educational services in this state, including the delivery of those services using telecommunications or information technology.

TX HB5

Relating to agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.

TX HB1417

Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of property owned by certain telecommunications providers.

TX HB1696

Relating to the relationship between managed care plans and optometrists and therapeutic optometrists.

TX SB36

Relating to property owners' associations, including condominium owners' associations.

TX SB1668

Relating to property owners' associations, including condominium owners' associations.

TX SB48

Relating to property owners' associations, including condominium owners' associations.

TX HB9

Relating to the development and funding of broadband and telecommunications services.

Similar Bills

CA AB1100

Communications service: disasters: reports.

HI SB2603

Relating To Telecommunications Facilities.

HI HB1203

Relating To Taxation Of Telecommunications Carriers.

HI SB626

Relating To Taxation Of Telecommunications Carriers.

GA HB814

Income tax credit; certain manufacturing and telecommunications facilities; qualified investment property; revise definition

MO SB848

Allows electrical corporations to operate and use broadband infrastructure

MO SB71

Authorizes electrical corporations to operate and use broadband services

CA AB3113

Forestry and fire prevention: contracts for use of communications, telecommunications, and powerlines.