Electric provider easements; defining terms; providing for use of certain easements for broadband services; effective date.
Impact
The bill's approval would significantly impact the legal landscape surrounding the use of utility easements. It enables electric providers to leverage their existing infrastructure for broadband expansion, which could reduce costs and speed up deployment of internet services, especially in underserved areas. Ordinance revisions would empower telecommunications to utilize pre-existing electric easements, creating a dual-use framework that could enhance service offerings and accessibility in rural and suburban regions where such infrastructure is minimal. This shift is expected to foster economic growth and improve community connectivity.
Summary
House Bill 2290 seeks to amend existing statutes in Oklahoma regarding electric provider easements, allowing these easements to also be utilized for broadband service deployment. The bill formally defines terms related to electric and broadband providers, and underscores that any easement used by electric companies can be repurposed for broadband services, provided that there is compliance with any specific restrictions outlined in existing agreements. This approach aims to facilitate the installation of high-speed internet infrastructure in areas previously constrained by standard utility easements, thereby promoting greater access to broadband services across the state.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits, HB 2290 contains provisions that prohibit class action lawsuits against electric or broadband providers in cases of trespass, nuisance, or inverse condemnation concerning claims related to broadband use of easements. Critics argue that these measures may limit property owners' rights and reduce accountability for service providers. The act stipulates that in any legal disputes, damages would be calculated based on the fair market value, effectively removing consideration of potential revenue generated by the installations as part of appraisals. This raises concerns about whether property owners would fairly benefit from any expansions that utilize their land.
A bill for an act related to using electric transmission and distribution easements held by electric cooperatives for broadband service, and including effective date provisions.
A bill for an act related to using electric transmission and distribution easements held by electric cooperatives for broadband service, and including effective date provisions.