Last Thursday, The West Virginia House Judiciary Committee approved a bill that, if passed, will expand broadband access in the state since most residents are underserved. The Herald-Dispatch reported that House Bill 2002 aims to make it easier and more cost-effective for service providers to install broadband fiber and for local municipal governments to enter into co-op agreements.
Gov. Jim Justice mentioned the need for broadband expansion during his recent State of the State address but did not outline actionable measures to achieve development. According to the Herald-Dispatch, both Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate have expressed support for any bill expected to expand broadband access and reliable service in West Virginia.
The bill’s primary objective is to make it less expensive for broadband service providers to expand service, including expediting the permitting process. According to Technology and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Daniel Linville, lead sponsor of the bill, another goal is for providers to share costs with utility companies and other entities, like the West Virginia Division of Highways (DOH).
An example provision includes service providers being allowed to install fiber lines anytime a utility company or the DOH digs in right-of-way areas. The West Virginia Office of Broadband will also become a “hub” regarding permits to fast-track the process with other state agencies.
“The intent is to say that [a utility company] has been through this process and, if a provider would like to install broadband and share in that trench you’ve made, they could share the cost with you,” said Linville. “It lessens the cost for each person or company, but they also take advantage of a truly shovel-ready project. It’s been through all the regulatory hurdles that are part of a project.”
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