The bill H.751 proposes significant changes to the process of siting telecommunications facilities in Vermont, mandating that such facilities obtain a permit from District Commissions. It repeals the existing statute regarding the certificate of public good for communications facilities and amends the definition of "development" to include telecommunications facilities and small cell antennas. The bill also clarifies that development does not include telecommunications facilities previously issued a certificate of public good under the repealed statute.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific permit conditions for telecommunications facilities, including distance requirements from various properties, radiation signal strength limits, and annual monitoring of RF emissions by an independent engineer. It establishes a framework for the Department of Public Service to assist the Land Use Review Board in investigating radiation signal strength and mandates the adoption of rules for radio frequency standards to protect wildlife health. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-6001, 10-6086(c), 10-6086