Bill

SB 1476

85(R) - 2017
Senate Business & Commerce
House State Affairs
Read Bill & Check Bill Status
Senate Business & Commerce
House State Affairs
Telecommunications

Vote Recommendation

No
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Negative
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Kel Seliger

Sponsor(s)

Ken King

Bill Caption

Relating to eligibility for support from the universal service fund.

Fiscal Notes

From the Legislative Budget Board: no significant fiscal implication to the state is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Under current law certain telecommunications companies are subsidized through the Texas Universal Service Fund (TUSF) which is funded by fees imposed on consumer phone plans. SB 1476 would allow some eligible companies receiving the subsidy which would otherwise expire on December 31, 2017 to continue to receive the TUSF subsidy until December 31, 2023 or until the Public Utility Commission eliminates the subsidy if earlier than that date.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill violates our limited government and free market principles by extending TUSF subsidies until 2023 which would otherwise expire sooner. We oppose SB 1476.

Organizations Opposed

Texas Cable Association