Bill: SB 1004, 85(R) - 2017
Committee
Senate Business & Commerce
2nd Chamber Committee
House State Affairs
Vote Recommendation
| Vote Recommendation |
Economic Freedom |
Property Rights |
Personal Responsibility |
Limited Government |
Individual Liberty |
| Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Author(s)
Kelly Hancock
Sponsor(s)
Charlie Geren
Bill Caption
Relating to the deployment of network nodes in public rights-of-way; authorizing fees.
Fiscal Notes
From the Legislative Budget Board: no significant fiscal implication to the state is anticipated.
Bill Analysis
SB 1004 would amend the Local Government Code to authorize a wireless network provider to construct and operate a network node (equipment that enables wireless communications between user equipment and telecommunications network) and utility pole or network support pole in a public right-of-way. The fee for the provider would be no more than $250 multiplied by the number of utility or network support poles with an installed node inside the municipality’s corporate boundaries. Next, a municipality would be prohibited from entering an exclusive arrangement with a sole person or firm for the use of a public right-of-way to construct and operate nodes. Finally, a series of regulations on the location and height of the poles and nodes along with the application process are included.
Vote Recommendation Notes
This is an administrative bill updating public right of way access for network service providers so that the law allows for the adaptation of emerging small cell wireless service technologies. This bill does not affect our liberty principles and we remain neutral.
Organizations Supporting
AT&T Texas
Sprint
Organizations Opposed
City of Arlington
City of Austin
City of Corpus Christi
City of Dallas
City of Denton
City of El Paso
City of Irving
City of San Antonio
Comcast
Texas Cable Association
