SB 56 Summary

• Removes geographic service area restrictions for public providers that are municipalities or municipal instrumentalities, allowing them to provide telecommunications and cable services beyond previously limited jurisdictions.

• Authorizes public providers to offer cable systems, telecommunications equipment and systems, cable service, interactive computer service, Internet access, other Internet services, and advanced telecommunications service without coverage area limitations.

• Permits public providers to furnish Internet access, meter reading services, alarm monitoring, security surveillance, and billing and financial services directly to the public.

• Requires public providers offering telecommunications services to provide nondiscriminatory access to telecommunications equipment to requesting carriers and electric cooperatives on just, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory terms.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.