HB 1147- Broadband

On Wednesday, January 31, HB 1147 by Representative Josie Tomkow (R-Polk City) was heard by the House Ways & Means Committee and was reported favorably with 21 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

In 2021, the legislature passed a law that mandates pole access by local municipal utilities to broadband providers for a fee of one dollar, per pole, per year. The goal of this measure was to broaden rural Florida’s access to high-speed internet. However, the 2021 law included a provision that would do away with pole access for broadband providers on July 1, 2024. HB 1147 extends this deadline until December 31, 2028.

HB 1147 will now go to the House Commerce Committee for consideration.

AIF supports the expansion of broadband services to all Floridians and supports legislation that seeks to promote that goal.

HB 789 – Environmental Management

On Wednesday, January 31, HB 789 by Representative Toby Overdorf (R-Palm City) was heard by the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and was reported favorably with 10 yeas and 5 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

HB 789 clarifies language for the redevelopment of contaminated lands and provides a barrier against frivolous litigation for those abiding by guidelines issued by the state.

HB 789 will now go to the House Infrastructure Strategies Committee for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that simplifies regulatory patchwork and provides protections against frivolous litigation.