Bill Caption

Relating to universal service fund assistance to high cost rural areas and the uniform charge that funds the universal service fund.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

HB 2667 would allow for the uniform charge that currently funds the universal service fund to also be in the form of a fee or an assessment on revenues of telecommunications providers. The bill would also expand the charge to apply it to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service. Additionally, the bill would prohibit the Public Utility Commission of Texas from assessing the uniform charge in a way that is not technology-neutral or grants an unreasonable preference based on technology.

The Texas universal service fund is a fund that is administered by the Public Utility Commission to help develop rural telecommunications services.

This bill also clarifies the definition of a "High cost rural area".

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action opposes HB 2667 as it would grow the scope of government and lead to increased costs for consumers by expanding the universal service fee to apply to VoIP service providers.