An Act to amend 196.504 (2) (a); to create 20.155 (3) (g), 196.504 (1) (aa), 196.504 (2g) and 196.504 (2r) of the statutes; Relating to: requirements for broadband expansion grants, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
The legislation is likely to have a direct impact on state laws governing broadband service provision. One significant change stipulated by SB1037 is that grant recipients must reimburse the Public Service Commission (PSC) if they fail to complete the construction of the broadband infrastructure or if the infrastructure does not deliver the required speeds post-completion. This provision introduces accountability into the state grant-making process, encouraging grant applicants to undertake well-planned and effective projects. It is also anticipated to streamline the allocation of funds, as any reimbursed amounts are repurposed for future grants.
Summary
Senate Bill 1037 aims to enhance the broadband expansion grant program in Wisconsin by setting clear requirements for the construction of broadband infrastructure. The bill defines 'broadband infrastructure' as systems that can deliver minimum download speeds of 100 megabits per second and upload speeds of 20 megabits per second. It establishes that grants can be awarded only for projects that meet these technical specifications, an update that is crucial as the state moves to address connectivity gaps in underserved areas. Furthermore, the bill mandates that applicants must specify the type of infrastructure intended for construction in their grant applications.
Contention
Discussion around SB1037 may arise over the stringent requirements set for infrastructure projects and the potential implications for smaller or rural applicants who might struggle to meet these standards. Critics may voice concerns that such conditions could deter investment in broadband services or disproportionately impact underserved communities, potentially exacerbating existing service inequities. Furthermore, the introduction of biennial performance audits for the grant program adds an additional layer of oversight but may also create administrative burdens that some stakeholders might contest. Overall, the bill represents a concerted effort by the government to align broadband infrastructure development with established performance metrics.
Crossfiled
An Act to amend 196.504 (2) (a); to create 20.155 (3) (g), 196.504 (1) (aa), 196.504 (2g) and 196.504 (2r) of the statutes; Relating to: requirements for broadband expansion grants, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)