Provides that municipal broadband service companies are authorized to provide broadband service to tenants in multi-family housing; provides that landlords shall not interfere with the installation of such service, demand or accept payment for allowing the service on the property, or discriminate in rental charges between tenants who receive broadband service and those that don't.
This bill creates a new class D felony offense for knowingly possessing a device that disrupts wireless communications (like cell signals or radio), without authorization. It directly affects individuals who own or carry such jamming devices, making possession illegal even if not actively used. The key provision defines the crime broadly as possessing any device capable of interfering with wireless signals through radio noise or signals. The penalty is a felony, with no mention of exceptions or specific exemptions for authorized uses like law enforcement.
Establishes the "broadband deployment assistance act"; requires that substantially similar permits for broadband deployment be processed together at the same time and on an expedited basis; defines terms; authorizes municipalities to simultaneously process certain broadband permit applications that are substantially similar.
This bill exempts municipal fiber optic broadband infrastructure in Erie County from real property taxes, levies, and assessments. It directly affects local governments and municipal broadband companies operating in Erie County that own and install fiber optic networks for public broadband services. The exemption covers all such infrastructure (on public or private property) used to distribute broadband, while requiring contractors to meet workplace safety standards, submit workforce plans, and comply with prevailing wage laws. The law takes effect immediately for assessments on or after the effective date.
This bill establishes a statewide process to streamline approvals for specific upgrades to existing wireless infrastructure, such as adding or replacing antennas on current towers or base stations. It exempts these "eligible modifications" from requiring local zoning or land use permits, which typically involve municipal review and delays. The goal is to accelerate broadband and advanced wireless service deployment by creating a uniform state-level permitting system. Local governments retain authority over other aspects of wireless facility siting under existing laws, but cannot impose additional permitting requirements for these specific upgrades.
This bill creates a new class D felony offense for knowingly possessing a device that disrupts wireless communications (like cell signals or GPS) without legal authorization. It directly affects individuals who own or carry such jamming devices, including those used to interfere with emergency services or commercial networks. The law prohibits possession of any device capable of emitting radio noise or signals that interfere with wireless communications. Violators face criminal penalties under state law, with the offense defined as unlawful possession without a right to do so.
Establishes the "broadband deployment assistance act"; requires that substantially similar permits for broadband deployment be processed together at the same time and on an expedited basis; defines terms; authorizes municipalities to simultaneously process certain broadband permit applications that are substantially similar.
Directs the public service commission to formulate a process, rules and regulations for the regulation of the charges and fees of internet and cable providers.
This bill, S 5692, streamlines approval for minor upgrades to existing wireless infrastructure. It exempts wireless companies from needing municipal zoning permits when making small modifications to current towers or base stations - such as adding small antennas, removing equipment, or replacing existing gear - without changing the structure's size. Municipalities must process these requests under a uniform state procedure within 60 days, eliminating local review delays for these specific changes. The bill does not affect new construction or modifications that substantially alter a facility's height or size, preserving local control over those aspects.
Provides for real property tax exemptions for last mile broadband infrastructure constructed, altered, installed or improved in an area designated a broadband opportunity area.
