Texas House Bill HB1619

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of and disbursements from the universal service fund for certain small and rural companies.

Impact

By implementing this bill, Texas aims to support small and rural companies that operate within the utility sector. The changes proposed could lead to increased efficiency in the disbursement of funds from the universal service fund, enabling these companies to compete more effectively with larger urban providers. If successful, this bill could facilitate better access to telecommunications services in rural areas, addressing equity in service provision and ensuring that residents in less populated areas do not fall behind in access to vital utilities.

Summary

House Bill 1619 seeks to amend existing laws regarding the universal service fund, specifically focusing on the disbursement for small and rural companies. The bill proposes to revise Section 56.032(h) of the Utilities Code, ensuring that certain support amounts expire. It reflects an ongoing initiative to streamline and potentially update the funding mechanisms in place for smaller utility providers that often face different challenges compared to larger companies in urban areas. The intent is to ensure the sustainability of services in less populated regions, which is critical for maintaining access to essential telecommunications infrastructure.

Contention

While the bill looks to support rural companies, it may also raise discussions about the adequacy and reliability of these funds. Some industry experts might argue about the sufficiency of the universal service fund itself to meet the demands of modern telecommunications needs in rural areas. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding how changes to disbursement rules could impact service quality or lead to disparities in funding allocation among different companies. The outcomes of this bill could significantly influence the operational landscape for small utility providers and their ability to service their communities effectively.