Broadband; public entities and providing of information by Internet service providers; penalty for failure to timely submit certain information; effective date.
Impact
The bill amends existing regulations, establishing a framework for information provision by state agencies, local governments, and ISPs. A notable consequence of non-compliance with this information request is the potential ineligibility of offending parties to receive grants or assistance from the Oklahoma Broadband Office for a year. This regulatory approach seeks to improve accountability and operational transparency across the broadband sector.
Summary
House Bill 2846 aims to enhance the effectiveness of the Oklahoma Broadband Office by imposing requirements on public entities and internet service providers (ISPs) to share specific information upon request. The core of this bill is to ensure that the Broadband Office has the necessary data to carry out its duties effectively, which could be critical in addressing broadband accessibility and infrastructure development across Oklahoma.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around HB2846 appears to be supportive among government officials and agencies involved in broadband expansion efforts. Supporters believe that better data sharing will lead to improved planning and implementation of broadband services, ultimately addressing issues of digital divide and accessibility. However, there may be concerns regarding the imposition of penalties, which some stakeholders may view as overly restrictive or punitive.
Contention
Key points of contention surrounding HB2846 include discussions about the balance between accountability and the strain that stringent reporting requirements might impose on public entities and ISPs. Critics may argue that while increasing data sharing is essential, the penalties for tardiness could create barriers in collaboration and prompt some entities to withhold information. Therefore, stakeholders are likely to debate the practicality of these new mandates and their impact on broadband service improvements.
Carry Over
Broadband; public entities and providing of information by Internet service providers; penalty for failure to timely submit certain information; effective date.
Broadband; public entities and providing of information by Internet service providers; penalty for failure to timely submit certain information; effective date.
Prescription drugs; requiring certain entities to submit certain reports to the Insurance Department; directing Department to electronically publish certain information. Effective date.
Public finance; creating the Information Services Agency; making Information Services Division a separate and distinct agency; modifying references to Division; effective date.
Crime and punishment; providing for certain prohibition on release of public scene specific information; defining terms; stating exception; requiring certain notification; providing penalty. Effective date.
State Medicaid program; requiring Department of Human Services to report certain information relating to home- and community-based services. Effective date. Emergency.