FL H0355

Department of Transportation must adopt rules by July 1, 2014 governing use of excess fiber optic communication networks by local governmental entities for nontransportation purposes.

Rules must comply with state law and applicable federal regulations governing property acquired with federal aid; nontransportation use is permitted but not required.

If nontransportation use is allowed, rules must require interlocal agreements defining parameters and preserving the department's right to terminate agreements if the right-of-way is needed for transportation purposes.

Statewide usage policy must be consistent with federal regulations, account for future fiber optic transportation needs, and require a needs analysis before approving each nontransportation use.

Act takes effect July 1, 2013.