Senate Bill No. 209 amends the Local Government Fair Competition Act to empower local governments in Louisiana to engage more effectively in telecommunications, cable television, and advanced services. The bill introduces new legislative findings that highlight the necessity for local governments to operate in a manner akin to private sector competitors, enhance interoperability for public safety communications, and promote broadband development in underserved areas. It clarifies that local governments can purchase, lease, construct, operate, or equip facilities for internal use or to serve unserved communities, while also encouraging participation in broadband expansion grant programs.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions by removing certain restrictions on local government operations in telecommunications and altering bonding authority to provide greater financing flexibility. It allows local governments to pledge utility resources for favorable bond financing and enables them to bundle services and offer promotional discounts in compliance with state and federal laws. Notably, the bill eliminates the Louisiana Public Service Commission's authority to set cost allocation rules and conduct audits of local governments, streamlining the regulatory framework for local utility operations. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB209 Original: 45:42(7), 45:45(B), 45:52(C), 45:53(2), 45:53(5), 45:55(D)