AR SB755

Adds legislative findings recognizing that widespread broadband deployment is vital to Arkansas's economic, educational, health, and social interests, and that the Arkansas High Cost Fund has enabled carriers to expand broadband services to rural areas.

Exempts electing companies, incumbent local exchange carriers filing notice, and competing local exchange carriers from numerous outdated regulatory requirements under Arkansas Code §§ 23-2-304, 23-2-306, 23-2-307, 23-3-101 through 23-3-119, 23-4-101 through 23-4-419.

Removes quality-of-service regulation and reporting requirements for all telecommunications providers in exchanges where an electing company is authorized to determine rates for basic local exchange and switched-access services.

Requires eligible telecommunications carriers (ETCs) receiving Arkansas High Cost Fund (AHCF) grants to comply with all telecommunications provider rules adopted by the commission unless the commission finds the technology used makes a rule inapplicable.

Ensures all ETCs remain subject to consumer protection rules regarding service applications, service refusal, deposits, disconnect notices, late payment penalties, elderly and handicapped protections, and delayed payment agreements.