Arkansas Governor to Sign Muni Broadband Bill
Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) plans to sign a bill that conditionally lifts state restrictions on municipal broadband, a spokesperson said Tuesday. Legislative chambers unanimously cleared SB-150 earlier this month (see 1902130020). Community broadband advocates see the bill as a…
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positive development, particularly in a southern, Republican state, said Institute for Local Self-Reliance Director Christopher Mitchell. But he called “a little counterproductive” an amendment specifying municipalities may provide broadband only in underserved areas where they receive a grant. The bill’s effectiveness in promoting muni broadband now depends on how Arkansas sets up a state broadband grant program, Mitchell said.