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H 3289

Statewide telecommunications system

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jermaine Johnson and 1 co-sponsor

H 3289 - Statewide Telecommunications System OverviewBill Number: H 3289 Title: Statewide Telecommunications System Status: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means Introduced: F

Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 3289

H 3289 - Statewide Telecommunications System

Overview

Bill Number: H 3289
Title: Statewide Telecommunications System
Status: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to establish a comprehensive, statewide telecommunications system to improve connectivity and access to essential digital services for all residents. The primary goal is to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to high-speed internet, voice communications, and other telecommunications capabilities across urban, suburban, and rural areas of the state.

Key Provisions

  • Authorizes the creation of a new state agency, the Telecommunications Infrastructure Authority, to oversee the planning, deployment, and ongoing management of the statewide system
  • Mandates the development of a 10-year strategic plan to guide the phased implementation of the network
  • Requires the Authority to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the state's existing telecommunications infrastructure and identify unserved or underserved areas
  • Establishes a $2 billion grant program to provide funding for local governments, utilities, and private providers to expand and upgrade broadband and other telecom services
  • Directs the Authority to negotiate bulk purchasing agreements with service providers to lower costs and ensure affordable rates for residential and business customers
  • Calls for the creation of a digital equity program to provide subsidies, devices, and digital literacy training to low-income households and vulnerable populations

Affected Parties and Impacts

The bill would impact all residents, businesses, and institutions across the state by improving access to high-quality, affordable telecommunications services. Specific beneficiaries include:

  • Unserved and underserved rural and urban communities that currently lack reliable broadband and voice connectivity
  • Low-income households that struggle to afford internet and technology
  • Schools, hospitals, government agencies, and other critical community institutions in need of enhanced digital infrastructure
  • Local economies that could see increased investment, job creation, and business growth enabled by improved telecom capabilities

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

H 3289 has been referred to the Committee on Ways and Means for further consideration and review. If approved by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full vote in the state legislature. If enacted, the Telecommunications Infrastructure Authority would have 12 months to develop the initial 10-year strategic plan before beginning implementation of the statewide system.

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

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