Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'guardianship fees'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- charge the citizens in Austin a fee.
- So it would not be logical for them to also charge the fee.
- Yeah, they say it's fee-based, but there are...
- In order to secure the services, even if they're fee-based.
- Those are strictly fee-based.
Bills:
SB1079, SB1243, SB1504, SB1579, SB1708, SB1844, SB1851, SB1879, SB1921, SB1951, SB2237, SB2238, SB2406, SB2407
Keywords:
public utility agency, dissolution, local government, regulatory framework, municipal authority, telecommunication, board meetings, Gulf Coast Authority, conference call, videoconference, abandoned property, tax delinquency, urban development, receivership, local governance, disannexation, municipality, services, property owners, jurisdiction
Summary:
The committee meeting on [date] focused on several key pieces of legislation, primarily addressing land use and city governance issues. Prominent discussions included SB1579, which seeks to empower municipalities in El Paso County to manage abandoned properties through a court-appointed receiver process. This bill aims to tackle long-standing challenges posed by undeveloped and neglected land parcels that hinder community growth. Public testimonies highlighted concerns regarding safety, illegal dumping, and the economic potential of reclaiming these properties for housing and development. Notably, Mayor Rudy Cruz Jr. of Socorro expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing the need for a clear process in handling unoccupied land.
Additionally, SB1851 was discussed, aimed at addressing audit compliance for Texas cities to improve financial transparency and accountability. Senator Nichols presented this bill, arguing for its necessity in ensuring cities cannot raise taxes without adhering to established audit requirements. Public testimonies underscored the experiences of city officials facing obstacles due to outdated audit practices, with calls for legislative action to protect taxpayers while enforcing compliance. The meeting was characterized by substantial participation from public officials, showcasing a collaborative effort to address these pressing issues.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- marker="103" data-time="612"> Are y'all willing to supply that data as far as your administrative fees
Okay, well I'm worried about the administrative fee
- So the increase of insurance more to take care of an administrative fee you're talking about, well
- We're not talking about, I'm not talking about administrative fees, I'm talking about administrative
- and the fees you're getting now.
Keywords:
health impact analysis, cost analysis, coverage mandates, health insurance, legislative analysis, health care data, education, funding, classroom resources, teacher support, student outcomes, health benefits, provider dentists, payment reimbursement, insurance code, noncontracting, dental care, reimbursement, health benefit plans, noncontracting providers
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused significantly on discussions surrounding HB138 and HB388. Representative Harris-DeVille presented HB388, which aims to standardize the coordination of benefits questionnaires used by health benefit plan issuers and healthcare providers. This discussion highlighted the issues of patient billing complexities and the potential for reduced errors in healthcare coverage. Various stakeholders provided testimony in support of the bill, emphasizing its importance in streamlining the process for patients who have dual coverage, such as Medicaid and Medicare. There was considerable backing for the functionality that HB388 would bring in clearing up confusion in billing practices across different insurance plans.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Apr 23rd, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This is a result of unreasonable delegation fees.
- What if there are no fees?
- at all or have a very small fee.
- We're going to take off those fees.
- This bill would take that fee down to zero.
Bills:
SB128, SB640, SB672, SB904, SB1141, SB1263, SB1525, SB1528, SB2041, SB2306, SB2308, SB2357, SB2446, SB2695, SB2857, SB2891, SB2583
Keywords:
hospital reporting, child abuse, neglect, administrative penalty, medical ethics, child protection, hearing instruments, licensing, continuing education, patient protection, medical evaluations, parent-child relationship, Department of Family and Protective Services, adversary hearing, protected rights, legal custody, prescription drugs, prior authorization, neurodegenerative diseases, health benefits
Summary:
The meeting involved focused discussions on several key bills aimed at improving mental health services and regulatory practices within the state. Notably, Senator Sparks introduced SB2446, which aims to enhance transparency in Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) by requiring detailed expenditure reports and reducing the influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in decision-making processes. The bill drew mixed reactions, with some members emphasizing the need for more oversight while others raised concerns about potential negative impacts on recruitment and service delivery for vulnerable populations. Public testimony highlighted differing perspectives, underscoring the complexity of mental health policies and their implementation constraints.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- To answer your question, yes, there is a flat fee.
- So the fee is going to be a flat fee; it doesn't matter what country it is happening.
- It's just a flat fee. No additional fees are offered. That's the contract that we offer.
- And the neat thing about this is it's a one-time fee.
- It's a one-time fee that you pay and, you know...
Keywords:
financial crime, card fraud, motor fuel theft, law enforcement, criminal activity, skimmers, prevention, training, credit card fraud, debit card fraud, prosecution, illegal possession, state law, transportation protection agreement, funeral services, insurance exemption, regulation, deceased transportation, mental health, substance use disorders
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various bills aimed at enhancing financial governance and protections in Texas. Notably, Representative Perez laid out House Bill 201, which proposes expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to combat organized financial crimes, such as motor fuel theft. This bill garnered significant support from witnesses, including Captain Jeff Headley from the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, who highlighted the urgent need for legislative measures to address increasing thefts that impact both consumers and state revenue. Subsequently, testimony from several members elucidated the impact of these crimes, emphasizing their detrimental effects on Texas' economic stability. The committee members expressed their interest in the advancements in tackling such issues through the proposed legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- move interest rates to 36 percent, but actually capping that as an APR, which encompasses the admin fee
- Do you guys charge origination fees? Do you charge all sorts of other fees on top of points?
The other fees we're allowed to charge are enshrined
- I believe there's an administration fee.
- these companies, as well as other loan companies, under 342F a 25% increase in their administration fee
Bills:
SB1113, SB1117, SB1206, SB1460, SB1802, SB1906, SB1917, SB2340, SB2455, SB2680, SB2690, SB705, SB748
Keywords:
dentistry, botulinum toxin, aesthetic treatments, dental regulation, training, electricity, transmission services, municipal consent, utility regulations, construction, state highways, ethics, compliance, licensing, government, transparency, landlord, tenant rights, repair obligations, housing conditions
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee was marked by discussions on several significant bills, with a keen emphasis on legislative updates and committee substitutes. Notably, Senator Blanco presented a new committee substitute for SB2610, which modifies the employee cap from 100 to 250 and extends the update timeline for cyber security programs for small businesses. This substitute was adopted unanimously, reflecting a collaborative agreement among the committee members. Additionally, there were discussions surrounding SB1856 as Senator Crayton provided insights into how stakeholder feedback influenced the bill's committee substitute. The committee ultimately voted in favor, pushing it towards the local and contested calendar, indicating the bill's progression through legislative channels.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII
Transcript Highlights:
- I have a question about the registration fees.
- And that is collected; it's a one-time fee.
- , and then there are county-specific fees, such as road and bridge and other applicable fees for a particular
- The base registration fee for a county is $50, $75, and then there are county-specific fees, such as
- road and bridge fees and other applicable fees for a particular county.
Keywords:
Texas Lottery Commission, charitable bingo, regulatory framework, financial appropriations, Sunset Advisory Commission, lottery couriers, operational efficiency
Summary:
The meeting of the Texas Lottery Commission centered around vital discussions regarding the regulatory framework and operational issues related to the lottery and charitable bingo systems in Texas. The committee reviewed financial appropriations, focusing on the need for infrastructure improvements to the Charitable Bingo Operations Division and highlighted the ongoing work with the Sunset Advisory Commission to enhance operational efficiency and compliance. Significant attention was given to the unregulated activities of lottery ticket couriers, which have raised concerns about integrity and fairness in lottery games, prompting the commission to consider appropriate measures to stop such activities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- These fees result in a double discount.
- Current law prohibits providers from passing these fees to
- This bill eliminates these hidden transaction fees, ensuring that providers receive the full payment
- And we can't pass those fees on to the client, but we're getting those fees passed on to us, which further
- They're reducing your fee by 3.5% because of how they're paying you. Correct?
Bills:
HB345, HB721, HB2580, SB815, HB3057, HB4603, HB3233, SB495, HB3863, HB3914, HB4570, HB5099, HB5173, SB458
Keywords:
insurance, appraisal process, disputed losses, residential property, policyholder rights, insurer obligations, natural disasters, appraisal expenses, insurance, appraisal process, disputed losses, residential property, policyholder rights, umpire selection, appraisal expenses, natural disasters, insurance, residential property, appraisal process, disputed losses
Summary:
The House Committee on Insurance meeting covered multiple bills focused on healthcare regulations and patient accessibility. Notably, House Bill 3057 was highlighted in testimony from citizens advocating for expanded access to CAR T-cell therapy, which has shown effectiveness for blood cancers. Testimonies were given by affected individuals, emphasizing the need for local treatment options without the burden of travel to distant medical facilities. Similarly, House Bill 4603 was laid out with the intent to align arbitration options and ensure that consumers receive timely resolutions in disputed medical charges. Overall, the committee demonstrated an active engagement with the public and various stakeholders while navigating key issues affecting health insurance and patient care in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Help me with fees."
- You know what my fee is? Zero.
- So when we looked at an agreement to have no fees, no fees. I think TMA was looking at that.
- It was only 5% that assumed a delegation fee, and even in that case, it was $500 for the monthly fee
- Regarding the delegatory fees, if we remove the fees, are
Keywords:
grand jury, jury qualifications, jury wheel, small counties, Texas legislation, age verification, obscene devices, online sales, juvenile protection, penalties, antitrust, attorney general, Texas Free Enterprise, business regulations, legal confidentiality, personal identifying information, data brokers, judicial safety, civil rights, data privacy
Summary:
The Committee on State Affairs meeting featured in-depth discussions primarily centered around Senate Bills 2459 and 3055. SB 2459, presented by Senator Birdwell, aims to protect the personal information of judicial officials to reduce security risks associated with data brokers. This bill brought significant public testimony, with supporters highlighting the need for enhanced safety for judges and court personnel, given the increasing threats and incidents reported. The committee also considered amendments to further refine the bill's implementation process, ensuring the effective removal of personal data upon request.
Senate Bill 3055 addressed the scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in rural Texas, promoting greater healthcare access amidst ongoing shortages of providers. Advocates for the bill, including several nurse practitioners, voiced the necessity for legislative changes that would empower APRNs to practice more independently. Opposing testimony raised concerns regarding patient safety and the need for physician oversight. The meeting concluded with a commitment to review these bills further, reflecting the broader challenges of healthcare access and safety regulations in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- and renewal fees they're already paying.
- fees as low as possible.
- That would keep, I guess, the licensing fees low.
- and the COPA program is a fee-supported program.
- The fees come in and get spent on the COPA program.
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, budget recommendations, Department of Licensing and Regulation, Texas Funeral Service Commission, anti-trafficking, whole body donation program
Summary:
The meeting covered significant budget recommendations for the Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and the Texas Funeral Service Commission, focusing on their proposed changes and the implications of the funding adjustments. Blake Paul from TDLR presented a comprehensive overview including a $23.1 million net decrease in their budget and a significant push for anti-trafficking efforts, which received positive feedback. Additionally, discussions on the whole body donation program highlighted increased funding to facilitate its transition following the recent legislative changes. The committee members engaged actively, debating the sufficiency of the proposed budgets and their impact on ongoing initiatives.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 17th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- The determination of fees, charges, and rates of certain benefits
It also authorizes a fee and creates criminal offenses
- data-time="486"> HB2453 relates to solid waste disposal services by certain counties, authorizing a fee
HB2524 by Cook relates to recovery fees.
HB2555 by Alan relates to the payment of a fee for
Keywords:
constitutional amendments, redistricting, public education, health and safety, public testimony, local governance, community welfare
Summary:
The committee meeting extended over a range of proposed legislation, heavily focusing on various constitutional amendments and significant bills affecting education, public safety, and local governance. A notable discussion included H.J.R. 123, which proposed establishing an independent redistricting commission—a move that stirred considerable debate among members. Additionally, H.A.R. 124 aimed at creating a state school health and safety fund, receiving full support from the committee members present. Multiple public testimonies were provided, emphasizing the anticipated impact these resolutions would have on community welfare.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
It must include attorney's fees, but the code does not
- if the payment is accepted by the claimant after the pre-suit notice is given, the final attorney's fees
- , prompt pay act fees, and other potential damages.
- It prohibits all attorney's fees.
- You say you get fees now, but you don't explain how that works.
Bills:
HB854, HB1052, HB1642, HB2076, HB3042, HB3695, HB3787, HB4062, HB4092, SB213, SB493, SB896, HB5519, HB4635
Keywords:
insurance, replacement cost, homeowner's policy, renter's policy, condominium insurance, property damage, claims process, telemedicine, teledentistry, telehealth, health benefit plan, insurance coverage, out-of-state services, health benefit plan, anxiety, pain management, contraceptive devices, insurance coverage, women's health, medical procedures
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance focused on several significant bills, including HB854, which aims to reform insurance payment structures to improve accessibility for homeowners needing urgent repairs. Representative Garcia-Hernandez strongly advocated for this bill, highlighting the struggles faced by constituents unable to cover upfront repair costs. Additionally, HB4092 was discussed, which seeks to clarify regulations surrounding pre-suit notices in insurance claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting policyholders' rights. The meeting included various testimonies, with both supporters and opponents voicing their concerns about how these bills could impact consumers and the insurance industry.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Developent Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am
Transcript Highlights:
- fees, a half million dollars towards the Trail Foundation.
- In this case, the developers will pay the bonding company a fee or premium to issue the bond, much like
- Other states have made expedited filings and charge a fee
- Reforms expedited filing fees and authorizes the Secretary
- of State to set and collect a fee up to $5,000 for expedited filings and services, aligning Texas with
Keywords:
squatting, property rights, eviction process, housing availability, condominium development, escrow deposits, Committee on Trade, Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development featured critical discussions surrounding several proposed bills, including SB1333, HB4876, and HB5567. Notably, the committee focused on issues related to property rights and squatting, with testimony emphasizing the urgent need for legislation to streamline the eviction process for squatters. Several witnesses, including representatives from various organizations, voiced strong support for SB1333, arguing that the current legal remedies are inadequate and contribute to escalating property disputes and community issues. Meanwhile, HB4876 aimed to address housing availability by allowing the use of escrow deposits for construction, which supporters believe will facilitate condominium development and ease the housing crisis in Texas. Finally, the committee adjourned after leaving several bills pending for further discussion, indicating the complexity and importance of these legislative efforts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- ...authorizing a fee for the Committee on Public Health.
- including the licensing of dispensing organizations and cannabis testing facilities, authorizing a fee
- ...HB 1530 by Goodwin relates to the production fees imposed
- data-time="3276">HB 1537 by Goodwin relates to the licensed profession of counselors, authorizing fees
- span>
HB 1546 by Raymond relates to the reimbursement of fees
Summary:
The meeting of the committee addressed a broad range of topics with significant attention paid to HB1554 and HB1569. HB1554, presented by Caprigliano, involved discussions on the authority of political subdivisions to utilize public funds for legal services for unlawfully present individuals, which stirred a debate among committee members regarding state resources and responsibilities. In contrast, HB1569, which concerns prohibitive measures on non-consensual medical procedures for minors with intersex traits, generated compelling testimony from advocacy groups and health professionals, stressing the bill’s implications on patient rights and medical ethics. Overall, the committee dedicated time to hearing from both proponents and opponents of these bills, ensuring a thorough examination of the issues at hand.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- span>
HB 4613 by Turner relates to the award of attorney fees
- HB 4457 by Wajani relates to innovation in certain issues within SLAWS regulations and authorizes a fee
- >
HB 4466 by Hicklin relates to the restrictions on the fees
- HB 4613 by Turner relates to the award of attorney fees
HB 4967 by Canales relates to the renewal fee for
Keywords:
ad valorem taxation, intangible property, tax exemption, property tax reform, economic implications, missing children, law enforcement, national reporting, investigation, public safety, ad valorem taxes, tax collector, delinquency date, tax payment, office closure, legislative matters, committee members, transparency, public education, proceedings
Summary:
The meeting included discussions surrounding various legislative matters, however, specific bills did not generate notable dialogue or challenges among the committee members. The members appeared to unanimously agree on the proceedings, which was reflected in the smooth running of the meeting. Members engaged in general commentary about the current legislative landscape and the importance of transparency and public education regarding new policies. While no specific testimony was gathered from the public, the atmosphere remained cordial and focused on advancing talks.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's a $200 initial fee, and I think the renewal fee is $200, which is every two years or something on
- And so those fees can run into the thousands.
- ABMS does penalize physicians with late fees and penalties. Just as a...
- So we charge a fee; our fee is $94.50 per year, so it's $1.89 for every two years.
- Those fees go to fund the oral assessors; they go to fund the innovation and the programs.
Keywords:
e-cigarettes, marketing prohibition, youth protection, criminal penalties, public health, school funding, education reform, state budget, property taxes, equity in education, health care, licensing, complaint procedure, disciplinary action, law enforcement, death records, vital statistics, healthcare, trauma facility, Medicaid
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Public Health was centered around discussions on several significant bills, including HB4175 and SB2721. HB4175 seeks to expand mental health leave policies to cover a wider range of qualified employees, including peace officers and parole officers. The motion for HB4175 was approved with a roll call vote showing a majority in favor. Conversely, SB2721 sparked extensive dialogue concerning the regulation of anatomical donations. Testimonies revealed public concerns over unclaimed bodies and the necessity for informed consent in body donation practices. The bill underwent substantial scrutiny, highlighting the balance between supporting medical education and protecting family rights.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Was it a contingency fee contract?
- If we'd had a **35 percent** contingency fee, we would have had to pay another **$6.5 million**.
- You had a contingency fee of 10.2 percent.
- First of all, the legal fees are all paid from the front.
- There's no, the legal fees aren't paid out.
Keywords:
Attorney General, budget recommendations, funding swaps, salary increases, Landowner's Compensation Program, public testimony, law enforcement
Summary:
The meeting focused on the budget recommendations for the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), where key issues included the proposed decrease of $163.9 million for the 2024-25 biennium and various methodology swaps for funding. Attorney General Paxton discussed ongoing litigation expenditures and emphasized the need for continued investments in agency staffing to address rising demands within law enforcement. Notably, he requested a 6% salary increase for 2026 and 2027 to retain talented personnel amidst competitive job markets. Public testimony highlighted community awareness challenges regarding the Landowner's Compensation Program, indicating a need for enhanced outreach efforts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- They would have to have exempt plates not to be charged a fee.
- It just exempts the fee, as we have done for as long as the DMV has been in existence.
- I was under the opinion that this was no longer to be a fee associated with the overall bond.
- Just like you could either pay the fee if you were not a government entity, and then you'd be exempt.
- In this case, you just don't have to pay the fee because if you're a government entity, you still have
Keywords:
education, funding, school districts, local control, equity, digital identification, identity verification, Department of Public Safety, Texas legislature, wireless communication, digital identification, Texas, Department of Public Safety, technology, identification program, fee structure, wireless devices, public safety, hunting license, handgun license
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee focused extensively on several bills, including discussions surrounding public safety and road management in Texas. A notable bill discussed was SB1351, which aims to designate a section of U.S. Highway 281 in honor of a fallen Border Patrol agent. Hearing emotional testimonies from family members highlighted the community's support for this tribute. Additionally, the committee progressed through multiple bills including SB2589 and SB2707, both addressing local governance issues and emergency response improvements, with discussions on operational practices and compliance with safety standards involving transportation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 28th, 2025 at 09:04 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Patients typically pay a monthly subscription fee directly to
If a public employee or retiree pays that direct fee out
- span marker="25" data-time="144">House Bill 3015 addresses the current gap by requiring that direct fees
- By recognizing DPC fees as qualified medical expenses, this bill gives Texans greater flexibility to
- So that would be the range within the fee schedule.
Keywords:
healthcare, direct primary care, insurance deductibles, Texas Health Benefit Plans, telemedicine, police retirement, disability pension, municipalities, law enforcement, retirement benefits, retirement, beneficiary, Employees Retirement System of Texas, divorce decree, beneficiary designation, Veterans' Land Board, general obligation bonds, constitutional amendment, veterans, housing assistance
Summary:
The committee meeting was centered on the discussion of various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 3521, which aims to enhance retention incentives for police officers in Houston. Chairman Harless opened discussions highlighting the urgency of the bill due to staffing challenges within the Houston Police Department. Testimonies were given by several members of the police department and pension fund representatives, stipulating the need for actionable changes to prevent a significant exodus of experienced officers. The bill was met with supportive testimony that underscored the precarious staffing situation and the necessity for improved retention strategies. Following deliberations, the bill remained pending for further review.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 10th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on Transportation Funding
Transcript Highlights:
- If the registration fees are down, if the motor vehicle fuel tax is down, and we're operating on luck
- And originally, the motor fuel tax was envisioned to be a user fee
- Built to be a user fee is vehicle miles traveled.
- When we're talking about user fees, the common discussion is how do you maintain the user fees?
- The Harris County Toll Road Authority, HECTRA, has not raised its toll fee in 15 years.
Keywords:
transportation funding, Proposition 1, Proposition 7, TXDOT, Cameron County, transportation infrastructure, public testimony, funding shortfall, state transportation
Summary:
The meeting of the Standing Subcommittee on Transportation addressed crucial issues relating to state transportation funding, focusing primarily on Propositions 1 and 7. The discussions, led by Chairman Canales, highlighted the significant contribution these propositions make to Texas's transportation budget and the impending challenges tied to a projected funding shortfall of $15 billion. Mark Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, along with Stephen Stewart, CFO, emphasized the importance of sustained funding to support Texas’s growing infrastructure needs amidst rising costs and diminishing revenue sources, notably due to changes in vehicle fuel efficiency and increased reliance on electric vehicles. Notable public testimony from Pete Sepulveda from the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority provided insights into local funding mechanisms and their role in enhancing the regional transportation networks.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband
Transcript Highlights:
- ; I said that residents pay a 5% franchise fee.
- , and the fee per line is set by the municipality.
- Despite the fees already paid by residents to be in the right-of-way, they have to pay again.
- Going forward, we do not set the fees that we...
- elect; the Public Utilities Commission sets those fees.
Keywords:
telecommunications, local exchange companies, universal service fund, rate maintenance, business expansion, broadband access, internet service, multiunit residential properties, urban areas, affordability programs, fiber-optic cables, public land, construction permits, environmental impact, notification requirements, telecommunications, municipal projects, infrastructure, facility relocation, public right-of-way
Summary:
The Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband convened to discuss several important bills aimed at improving broadband infrastructure and managing the financial responsibilities associated with utility right-of-way relocation. Notably, Chair Morales advocated for HB3953, focused on assessing broadband availability in multifamily housing, highlighting significant gaps observed during the COVID-19 pandemic where families struggled to access necessary internet services for education. Testimonies were provided by various stakeholders, underlining the critical nature of broadband accessibility for vulnerable populations, including low-income families and students.