Localities Say Michigan Bill Should Fund Muni Broadband
Local governments seek to remove a restriction on municipal broadband from a Michigan bill to establish a state grant program. The House Communications Committee voted 5-0 at a livestreamed meeting Wednesday to amend HB-4288, including to increase its proposed internet…
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speed requirement to the federal standard, 25 Mbps downloads and 3 Mbps uploads. The amended bill still would ban the state from “directly or indirectly” awarding grants to governmental entities, educational institutions or affiliates. Localities “should have the option to participate,” said Michigan Townships Association Legislative Liaison Tom Frazier at the hearing in Lansing. “In some cases, that might be the only option.” At least allow municipal broadband in areas where no private entity applies, he said. Committee Chair Michele Hoitenga (R) disagrees “with the premise that a municipality would need to start their own broadband” since the bill would “give incentive for our providers to places they would not typically go.” The Telecom Association of Michigan and Communications Workers of America supported HB-4288. About 100 Michigan localities will oppose the bill due to the muni broadband restriction and other reasons, said Protec General Counsel Mike Watza. The bill requires speeds that are too slow and lacks buildout, rate or service quality conditions, he added.