AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, relative to broadband.
Impact
The bill is expected to have significant implications for the deployment and regulation of broadband services in Tennessee. By modifying the timeline for decisions or actions related to broadband, the Tennessee General Assembly aims to facilitate quicker responses to matters involving broadband infrastructure, which is essential for enhancing internet access across various regions. This change may enhance the ability of service providers to respond to legislative requirements more efficiently, thus potentially improving overall service delivery.
Summary
SB1283 is an act to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 4, in relation to broadband. The key provision outlines a change in the timeframe for certain actions, shifting a requirement from 'thirty (30) business days' to 'thirty (30) calendar days.' This amendment aims to streamline processes related to broadband implementation and regulation, potentially accelerating the timeline for approval and action within the state’s broadband initiatives.
Contention
While the bill appears straightforward, the changes could spark discussions around the adequacy of timelines required for thorough review and community input on broadband expansions. Critics may argue that compressing timelines could lead to insufficient scrutiny and oversight, particularly relating to how new broadband installations affect local communities and existing infrastructures. Proponents, on the other hand, would argue that the adjustment reflects the urgency of improving internet accessibility, particularly in underserved areas.
Notable_points
Though no major points of contention are explicitly detailed in the available summaries, the change from business days to calendar days may be an operational concern for some stakeholders, as it alters the expectations for decision-making processes. Additionally, stakeholders might express varying opinions about whether this streamlined approach adequately addresses the complexities involved in broadband initiatives, especially in rural and underserved regions of Tennessee.