The bill amends Iowa's telecommunications regulations, specifically focusing on services provided to incarcerated individuals. It revises Section 476.91 to replace the term "alternative operator services" with "telecommunication services for incarcerated persons." The bill introduces new definitions, including "correctional facility" and "incarcerated person calling service," while removing outdated definitions related to alternative operator services. It establishes that all incarcerated person calling services will be subject to the jurisdiction of the commission and must adhere to approved tariffs, ensuring that service providers comply with the same requirements and sanctions as other telecommunications entities.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for obtaining an electric transmission line franchise by eliminating the need for a specific form, the signature of the chairperson of the utilities commission, and the attachment of an official seal. However, it maintains that essential information, such as a general description of the improvement and the name and address of the grantee, must still be provided to the commission. Overall, the bill streamlines the regulatory framework for telecommunications services related to incarcerated individuals and simplifies the franchise application process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 476.91, 478.7