SB 836

This bill makes changes to the broadband expansion grant program that affect

cities, villages, towns, and counties (political subdivisions). Under current law, the

PSC administers the program and makes grants to eligible applicants for

constructing broadband infrastructure in underserved areas. The bill allows a

political subdivision to apply for a grant without submitting the application in

partnership with a telecommunications utility or a for-profit or not-for-profit

organization, which is required under current law. The bill also allows a political

subdivision to use a grant for the following purposes, in addition to constructing

broadband infrastructure: 1) planning related to broadband infrastructure

construction, including broadband feasibility reports; and 2) defraying no more than

50 percent of the cost of hiring and employing one broadband director.

The bill also eliminates a requirement for a city, village, or town to prepare a

report before constructing or operating a facility for providing to the public

telecommunications service, cable television or similar video service, or broadband

service. With exceptions, current law requires a city, village, or town to hold a

hearing before enacting an ordinance or adopting a resolution authorizing it to

construct or operate such a facility. In addition, at least 30 days prior to the hearing,

the city, village, or town must prepare and make available to the public a report that

estimates the total costs and revenues for the facility and includes a cost-benefit

analysis of the facility for a period of at least three years. Under this bill, a city,

village, or town is not required to prepare that report.