Missouri House Bill HB2298

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Authorizes the Department of Economic Development to purchase fiber optic cables and sell them to broadband developers

Impact

If enacted, HB2298 would significantly impact the telecommunications sector in Missouri by potentially lowering the cost of crucial infrastructure for broadband providers. By allowing the state to purchase and store fiber optic cables, the bill aims to streamline the process for broadband providers who often face significant capital costs in procuring these resources. This could lead to increased deployment of broadband services in underserved or rural areas, thereby improving access to high-speed internet across the state.

Summary

House Bill 2298 seeks to authorize the Department of Economic Development in Missouri to purchase fiber optic cables and other broadband equipment. The bill aims to facilitate broadband development across the state by enabling the state to store relevant equipment and sell it to broadband providers at cost. This initiative is coordinated in partnership with the Department of Transportation, suggesting a collaborative approach to enhance infrastructure initiatives.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to enhance broadband access, it may also raise questions surrounding the state's role in telecommunications and potential competition with private entities. Some stakeholders might argue that government intervention in purchasing and selling broadband equipment could be seen as an overreach, potentially undermining private investment and innovation in the broadband space. Discussions surrounding the implications of such state involvement in a traditionally private sector market may lead to notable points of contention among legislators and industry representatives.