Arkansas
Legislators in Arkansas were motivated to improve connectivity issues in their state by citing it as, “second-to-last in the nation in providing broadband internet to households, businesses, or other locations.” House Bill 150, entitled “An Act to Amend the Telecommunications Reform Act of 2013” was signed into law last week by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson.
“It is the intent of the General Assembly to provide Arkansans with access to high quality voice, data, broadband, video, or wireless telecommunications services, resulting in increased educational opportunities, healthcare opportunities, and economic development opportunities and ensuring all Arkansans have equal access to the services they can use to improve their quality of life, their community, and this state,” the bill read.
The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) commended the Governor’s actions: “WIA commends Gov. Hutchinson for expeditiously signing Arkansas’ small cell bill into law to join 22 other states in moving toward 5G readiness. This legislation lays the groundwork for jobs, economic growth, and access to healthcare and education for Arkansans throughout the state,” said WIA President and CEO Jonathan Adelstein. “We are glad to support this balanced and bipartisan bill, and we thank the sponsors and the governor for their vision in enabling Arkansas to help propel the U.S. toward becoming the global leader in 5G.”
April 15, 2019
Reader Interactions