Wisconsin Broadband Legislation Aims to Cut Through Red Tape

The state of Wisconsin has passed a bill aimed at making it easier for network operators to deploy broadband, which Gov Scott Walker (R-WI) signed late in March. The Wisconsin broadband legislation, which was spearheaded by the Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association (WSTA), lays out requirements that “political subdivisions” such as cities, towns and counties must meet in order to obtain a “Broadband Forward!” designation. The subdivisions are required to adopt ordinances spelling out those requirements. The Wisconsin broadband legislation includes the following requirements for communities to obtain the Broadband Forward! designation:

• Imposing permit fees of no more than $100 for network operators and prohibiting additional fees
• Prohibiting moratoriums on applications, permits or cable installation
• Requiring communities to inform network operators within 10 days if an application is incomplete and to provide an explanation of why it is incomplete. If this notification is not provided, the application is considered to be approved
• If an application is denied, the community must provide evidence that the decision is not arbitrary or capricious

The Wisconsin “Broadband Forward!” news illustrates two important trends in the broadband business: heightened awareness of the importance of cutting through red tape to spur broadband deployment and the creation of catchy phrases to call attention to broadband preparedness.