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Bill

HB 626

Real Estate Development and Highway Rights-of-Way - Installation of Broadband Micro Conduits and Microducts

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Adrian Boafo and 2 co-sponsors

Maryland bill requiring developers and highway projects to install broadband micro conduits during construction to reduce future fiber-optic deployment costs—withdrawn after hearing cancellation.

Withdrawn by Sponsor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 626

Legislative bill overview

HB 626 would have required real estate developers and highway construction projects in Maryland to install broadband micro conduits and microducts during their work, creating infrastructure pathways for future fiber optic cable installation. This represents a "dig once" policy approach, leveraging existing construction activity to build telecommunications backbone infrastructure without dedicated excavation costs.

Why is this important

Broadband access remains a significant equity issue in Maryland, particularly in rural and underserved areas. By mandating micro conduit installation during routine development and highway work, the bill aimed to reduce the future cost and disruption of deploying broadband infrastructure across the state. However, the bill's withdrawal suggests concerns about implementation costs, feasibility, or industry resistance.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Whether developers and transportation agencies should bear costs for telecommunications infrastructure that primarily benefits future broadband providers
  • Technical specifications and standards: Determining compatible duct sizes, materials, and installation standards across multiple project types and jurisdictions
  • Implementation timeline and enforcement: How to ensure compliance across diverse construction projects without creating regulatory burden or project delays

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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