AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7 and Title 65, relative to broadband enabled services.
If enacted, HB 1136 would prohibit state and local government entities from regulating broadband internet access services and interconnected VoIP services in a manner that affects the entry, rates, or service conditions. This means that local jurisdictions would not have the ability to establish their own rules concerning broadband services, which could enhance service consistency across the state but may restrict local governments' ability to respond to their specific community needs.
House Bill 1136 aims to amend various provisions in the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning broadband-enabled services. The bill defines what constitutes broadband internet access and interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and clarifies that these services are not classified as telecommunications services under state law. By doing so, the bill seeks to redefine the regulatory landscape for broadband access, which is particularly significant in the context of modern telecommunications and internet access.
The sentiment around HB 1136 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that by reducing the regulatory burden on broadband service providers, the bill could foster greater competition and improvement in service quality. However, opponents express concerns about the potential ramifications for consumer protection and local governance, suggesting that this centralization may ultimately reduce local responsiveness and oversight on critical service matters. Overall, discussions reflected a divide between promoting business interests and protecting local governance.
Notable points of contention include fears that the bill may diminish consumer protections related to broadband services. Critics emphasize that without local regulatory capabilities, residents may face higher prices and less choice as providers have less incentive to cater to specific local needs. Additionally, there are broader apprehensions about the implications for public utilities, as HB 1136 clarifies that broadband providers will not be treated as public utilities under the law, potentially challenging established practices in oversight and consumer rights.