The Equal Access to Broadband Act seeks to improve broadband services and infrastructure in Minnesota by amending various sections of the Minnesota Statutes. The bill redefines "broadband" to align with the Federal Communications Commission's standards and introduces new definitions for terms like "local franchising authority" and "last-mile infrastructure." It clarifies the responsibilities of local governments in managing broadband infrastructure, allowing local franchising authorities to require broadband providers to obtain franchises or municipal authorizations, which may include fees based on the provider's gross revenues. The legislation emphasizes local government coordination to minimize future relocations of broadband infrastructure and outlines the rights of telecommunications right-of-way users.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing statutes concerning public rights-of-way management and fees for small wireless facilities. It establishes that the cost of initial engineering surveys and preparatory construction for collocation must be borne by the cost causer through a one-time charge. Local governments can charge fees for small wireless facility permits, including annual rent and maintenance fees. The bill also prohibits franchising authorities from discriminating against telecommunications right-of-way users and clarifies that users do not need permits for facilities lawfully occupying public rights-of-way as of May 10, 1997. Additionally, it grants the council authority to franchise occupants of public rights-of-way and collect compensation while removing previous restrictions on local governments collecting fees through in-kind services.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 116J.39, 116J.394, 116J.399, 222.37, 237.162, 237.163, 412.221