Technology

Creates the Broadband Deployment Act. Sets forth provisions concerning the use of existing electric easements and public road rights-of-way by a broadband provider to install, maintain, and use broadband infrastructure to provide broadband service. Provides that no additional compensation is required for the installation and maintenance of broadband infrastructure within an easement for electricity or along an existing public road right-of-way. Provides notice requirements for a specified entity that intends to provide broadband infrastructure for broadband services pursuant to an agreement to use existing or subsequently acquired utility easements. Sets forth provisions concerning a private right of action and damages for a property owner who is challenging the broadband provider's right to use an easement for broadband services or infrastructure. Requires coordination with the relevant local governmental unit to minimize potential future relocations. Effective immediately.

Creates the Complex Wheelchair Right to Repair Act. Provides that, for complex wheelchairs and parts for complex wheelchairs sold or used in the State, an original equipment manufacturer shall make available to an independent repair provider, solely for the purpose of repairing complex wheelchairs, on fair and reasonable terms, any documentation, parts, service access methods, and tools, including, but not limited to, any updates to information, firmware, or embedded software that is needed for purposes of repair of complex wheelchairs and training courses and materials on the operation, inspection, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of complex wheelchairs. Provides that a violation of any of the provisions of the Act is an unlawful practice under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Provides for penalties. Provides that nothing in the Act shall require an original equipment manufacturer to divulge a trade secret to an independent repair provider. Amends the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act to make a conforming change. Effective January 1, 2024.