Nebraska Legislature Bill LB18

Nebraska 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/13/25

Caption

Require certain determinations prior to utility pole installations under the Small Wireless Facilities Deployment Act

Impact

The bill could significantly influence state laws by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of both utility companies and local governments regarding the installation of wireless facilities. This clarity may facilitate faster deployment of necessary infrastructure while balancing the needs of local governance. The framework provided by LB18 could enable cities and counties to establish more defined processes for approvals, thereby addressing public concerns about construction impacts, aesthetic issues, and community planning.

Summary

LB18 seeks to implement requirements for evaluations and determinations prior to the installation of utility poles under the Small Wireless Facilities Deployment Act. The legislation is aimed at streamlining the deployment of small wireless facilities while ensuring that local municipalities have adequate oversight and control over where and how these installations occur. By requiring certain determinations to be made before these installations, the bill aims to protect local interests and avoid adverse impacts on communities.

Contention

Opponents of LB18 might argue that while the intent is to streamline installations for enhanced connectivity, it could lead to conflicts regarding local zoning and land use policies. Concerns may arise over the degree of state preemption that the bill might impose upon local regulations, potentially limiting localities' abilities to control the placement of these facilities. This point of contention highlights the ongoing debate around balancing state-level needs for technological advancement against local governance and community desires.