This bill mandates that cable television (CATV) companies provide free broadband Internet service, along with necessary equipment, to public libraries and, under certain conditions, to other municipal buildings as part of their municipal or system-wide franchise agreements. Specifically, it requires that any CATV company applying for or renewing a franchise must ensure that at least one public library in the municipality receives this service, with the Internet access bandwidth and circuit capacity tailored to meet the library's needs. The bill also stipulates that CATV companies must extend this free service to all municipal buildings when applying for or renewing a system-wide franchise.

In addition to the free Internet service provisions, the bill includes several amendments to existing legal requirements for CATV companies. These amendments enhance the obligations of CATV companies regarding their financial and technical capabilities, insurance requirements, and commitments to provide public access channels and service outlets to municipal facilities. The bill aims to improve access to broadband services in public institutions, thereby supporting community connectivity and resource availability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48:5A-28