The proposed bill aims to establish municipal access to utility poles located within municipal rights-of-way in Massachusetts. It amends Section 22A of chapter 166 of the General Laws by adding definitions for "make-ready work," which includes the rearrangement or transfer of existing facilities and other necessary changes to accommodate additional attachments to shared-use poles. Additionally, it defines "unserved or underserved area" based on criteria set by the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, focusing on the percentage of households with access to broadband service.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section (22J) that clarifies the responsibilities of shared-use pole owners and entities attaching to those poles. It states that these parties are responsible for their own expenses related to make-ready work when accommodating a municipality's attachment for governmental purposes or for providing broadband service to unserved or underserved areas. This legislation seeks to enhance public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring municipalities can effectively access and utilize shared utility infrastructure.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 166-22A