H 3478
An Act to streamline broadband permitting and ensure equitable access to infrastructure
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to make it easier for broadband internet providers to get permits to build and maintain infrastructure in Massachusetts. It also seeks to ensure that all communities, particularly underserved ones, have access to reliable broadband service. The legislation focuses on streamlining the permitting process and promoting equitable access to this essential service. It is intended to address barriers to broadband deployment and expand coverage across the state.
Key provisions
- Streamlines the permitting process for broadband infrastructure projects.
- Expedites the review and approval of broadband infrastructure permits.
- Requires state agencies to prioritize equitable access to broadband.
- Directs the Broadband Council to develop strategies for expanding broadband access in underserved areas.
- Addresses potential barriers to broadband deployment.
- Promotes the use of existing infrastructure for broadband expansion.
Who is affected
- Broadband internet providers
- Local municipalities
- Residents of Massachusetts
- Underserved communities
- The Massachusetts Broadband Council
Notable changes
- The bill is being updated and replaced by H.5290.
- It focuses on both streamlining permitting and ensuring equitable access.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Kip A. Diggs
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yoursRead the latest version inline or switch to a previous version.
Bill H.3478 194th (Current)
An Act to streamline broadband permitting and ensure equitable access to infrastructure
By Representative Diggs of Barnstable, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3478) of Kip A. Diggs and Bud L. Williams relative to broadband permitting and access to infrastructure. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
View Text Print Preview Download PDF
Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Kip A. Diggs
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 6 actions for Bill H.3478
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 4/30/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 05/06/2025 from 11:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-2 |
| 8/4/2025 | House | Reporting date extended to Wednesday, December 3, 2025 |
| 12/4/2025 | House | Reporting date extended to Wednesday, March 18, 2026 |
| 3/25/2026 | House | Accompanied a new draft, see H5290 |
Similar Bills
H.5290 194th (Current)
An Act to streamline broadband permitting and ensure equitable access to infrastructure
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The General Court provides this information as a public service and while we endeavor to keep the data accurate and current to the best of our ability, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.