Wyoming 2022 Regular Session

Wyoming House Bill HB0067

Failed
2/18/22  

Caption

Connect Wyoming program-funding and amendments.

Impact

This legislation is set to have a significant impact on state laws governing broadband internet services. Specifically, the bill directs funding towards infrastructure projects that must adhere to predefined standards for internet speeds, prioritizing areas lacking adequate service. The initiatives to be funded are designed to ensure reliable download speeds of at least 100 megabits per second and upload speeds sufficient for modern usage. By focusing on these standards, the state aims to uplift connectivity in regions that have historically been neglected in terms of broadband access.

Summary

House Bill 0067, also known as the Connect Wyoming program-funding bill, focuses on enhancing broadband internet access throughout Wyoming by appropriating $150 million in federal funds. These funds are sourced from the American Rescue Plan Act and are designated for projects aimed at broadening internet service availability, particularly in underserved and unserved areas of the state. The act emphasizes the need for high-speed internet capabilities to support economic recovery and development, especially following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intention to expand internet access, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation and management of the funds. Some stakeholders might express concerns about the prioritization of funding, particularly whether certain areas will receive adequate attention over others. Furthermore, the regulations surrounding the definition of underserved areas may lead to debates about eligibility for funding and the effective allocation of resources. The rulemaking authority granted to the governor to define these terms adds a layer of complexity to the oversight of the program.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WY SF0125

AN ACT relating to the administration of the government; amending programs, functions and operations of the Wyoming business council; specifying requirements for the Wyoming business council; making conforming amendments; specifying limitations of the Wyoming business council; specifying applicability; requiring reports; creating a task force; providing appropriations; and providing for effective dates.

WY SF0045

Wyoming state guard-amendments.

WY SF0065

AN ACT relating to the administration of the government; repealing and terminating the Wyoming business council; repealing the Wyoming Economic Development Act and renumbering portions of the act; specifying requirements and conditions for the repeal and termination; transferring specified functions of the Wyoming business council to other state entities; making conforming amendments; repealing obsolete provisions; requiring reports; specifying applicability; authorizing positions; providing an appropriation; and providing for effective dates.

WY AR23

Urges United States Congress to renew funding for Affordable Connectivity Program.

WY SF0014

Wyoming imagination library program.

WY HB0138

Wyoming gaming commission amendments.

WY SF0027

Wyoming national guard member referral-amendments.

WY SB3565

SUCCESS for BEAD Act Supporting U.S. Critical Connectivity and Economic Strategy and Security for BEAD Act

WY HB6920

SUCCESS for BEAD Act Supporting U.S. Critical Connectivity and Economic Strategy and Security for BEAD Act

WY SF0123

AN ACT relating to the administration of the government; creating the Wyoming energy dominance fund; specifying authorized uses and requirements of the fund; authorizing grants and loans from funds within the Wyoming energy dominance fund as specified; requiring reports; providing findings; modifying distribution of severance tax revenues; providing for the deposit of funds into the Wyoming energy dominance fund; making conforming amendments; and providing for an effective date.

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