Relating to the development and utilization of high-speed electronic transmission mediums

This bill relates to the development and utilization of high-speed electronic transmission mediums, including certifications to be issued by the economic development authority and the fiberoptic conduit installation program. The bill requires the authority to establish a broadband forward certification program and a telecommuter forward certification program. The objective of the broadband forward certification program is to encourage political subdivisions to further develop broadband infrastructure and access to broadband. The objective of the telecommuter forward certification program is to encourage political subdivisions to further develop and promote the availability of telecommuting. The bill provides that a political subdivision is to apply to the authority for broadband forward certification or telecommuter forward certification on forms prescribed by the authority by rule. The bill requires the authority to develop criteria for evaluating applications for broadband forward certification and telecommuter forward certification. The bill provides that such criteria shall take into account the applicant’s individual circumstances and economic goals. The bill additionally provides that the authority shall consult with local government entities and local economic development officials when evaluating an application. The bill repeals the fiberoptic network conduit installation program under the authority of the office of the chief information officer and reestablishes the program under the purview of the department of transportation. The fiberoptic network conduit installation program provides that the department of transportation is to administer a program related to the installation of fiberoptic network conduit where such conduit does not exist. More specifically, the department is to coordinate with applicable agencies and entities to ensure there is an opportunity to install fiberoptic network conduit during certain projects. The bill also requires the department to maintain and publish on its internet site a list of construction projects utilizing public funding that involve opening the ground alongside a private road.