Relating to the access by a certificated telecommunications provider to the rights-of-way and poles of an electric cooperative.

HB 3448 requires electric cooperatives in Texas to provide certificated telecommunications providers (like internet or phone companies) with fair, nondiscriminatory access to their rights-of-way (public pathways) and poles (utility structures). The bill mandates that cooperatives cannot charge telecom providers more for pole attachments than what's in existing contracts or the federal rate set by the FCC for similar services. It also gives the Public Utility Commission authority to enforce these rules and resolve disputes over rates. This bill directly affects electric cooperatives and telecom providers by standardizing access terms and preventing excessive fees for infrastructure use. If passed, it would take effect on September 1, 2025.