Provides for the regulation of certain broadband services (OR INCREASE SG RV See Note)
Summary
HB 305 creates a new statute, R.S. 45:1206, to place certain broadband and internet service providers under the regulatory authority of the Louisiana Public Service Commission (PSC). The bill defines “internet” broadly to include broadband, fiber, and related internet services, and defines “internet service provider” as any entity that provides access to the internet. Its coverage is limited to internet services that use federal grant funding to build broadband infrastructure, including programs such as BEAD and RDOF.
Under the bill, the PSC would have power to supervise and enforce rules for privately owned and operated internet service providers that are not already regulated by a city, town, or parish. The commission would be authorized to adopt rules, compel witnesses and documents, take testimony, and enforce compliance using powers similar to those available in district court proceedings. The bill also requires that any PSC actions under this section receive approval from the Office of Broadband before being sent into the normal Administrative Procedure Act rule-review process.
Impact
HB 305 would expand state-level oversight of broadband providers that receive federal infrastructure funding, potentially affecting how those providers operate, comply with rules, and interact with the PSC. It would add a new layer of regulation for privately owned internet service providers outside local government control, while leaving locally supervised providers untouched. The bill would also create a role for the Office of Broadband in reviewing PSC actions before formal rulemaking review, affecting the administrative process for broadband regulation.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available record. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears to reflect a regulatory approach to broadband deployment and oversight rather than a partisan or highly controversial policy change. The caption note suggesting a possible fiscal impact (“OR INCREASE SG RV See Note”) indicates the bill may have been viewed as having administrative or revenue-related implications, but no discussion is available to confirm how that was received.
Contention
The main potential point of contention is the expansion of PSC authority over internet service providers, especially providers using federal broadband grant money. Supporters would likely view the bill as a way to ensure accountability and consistent oversight of publicly subsidized broadband buildout, while opponents may see it as adding regulatory burden or creating uncertainty for providers. Another possible issue is the requirement that the Office of Broadband approve PSC actions before APA review, which could raise questions about agency authority, coordination, and the balance between state oversight and broadband deployment goals.