Relating to deregulation of certain telecommunications markets and companies.
Impact
The proposed deregulation is expected to have significant implications on state law concerning the regulation of telecommunications services. Notably, it will affect companies delivering services in regions with populations greater than 30,000 by restructuring the distribution of subsidies from the universal service fund. Furthermore, a company operating in a deregulated market would no longer receive support from this fund if the local market exceeds this population threshold, which could leave smaller or underserved areas without adequate telecommunication services.
Summary
SB986 is a legislative bill aimed at the deregulation of certain telecommunications markets and companies in Texas. The bill seeks to amend the Utilities Code, allowing the Public Utility Commission to impose less burdensome regulations on certain telecommunications utilities that are not classified as public utilities. This change is intended to streamline operational requirements and reduce regulatory burdens on deregulating or transitioning companies. The introduction of this bill reflects a broader trend towards deregulation in the telecommunications industry, aiming to foster competition and improve services in various markets across the state.
Contention
The bill has sparked discussions on the potential risks associated with deregulation, specifically regarding service quality and access in less populated areas. Proponents argue that reducing regulatory constraints will encourage competition, potentially leading to better service options and pricing for consumers. However, opponents warn that deregulation might disadvantage rural communities and lead to diminished service standards. The tension reflects a broader debate on local versus state regulatory control and the adequacy of protections for consumers in increasingly competitive markets.
Relating to state contracts with Chinese companies and investments in Chinese companies and certain companies doing business with China; authorizing a civil penalty.
Relating to the Texas Connectivity Fund and to the allocation and the use of certain proceeds from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on telecommunications services.
Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Relating to the provision and delivery of certain health, mental health, and educational services in this state, including the delivery of those services using telecommunications or information technology.
Relating to methods for the recovery of system restoration costs incurred by electric utilities following hurricanes, tropical storms, ice or snow storms, floods, and other weather-related events and natural disasters.
Relating to methods for the recovery of system restoration costs incurred by electric utilities following hurricanes, tropical storms, ice or snow storms, floods, and other weather-related events and natural disasters.
Relating to the administration of the Texas Save and Match Program to assist qualifying beneficiaries under the state's prepaid tuition plans and college savings plans and to the treatment of a beneficiary's assets under prepaid tuition plans and college savings plans in determining eligibility for student financial assistance and other assistance programs.
Relating to the administration of the Texas Save and Match Program to assist qualifying beneficiaries under the state's prepaid tuition unit program and college savings plans and to the treatment of a beneficiary's assets under a prepaid tuition program or a college savings plan in determining eligibility for student financial assistance and other assistance programs.