HI HCR118

Urges the Public Utilities Commission to develop and adopt an efficient, streamlined process for reviewing electric utilities' requests to provide middle mile broadband services under Hawaii Revised Statutes section 269-19.

Supports electric utilities leveraging their existing telecommunications infrastructure and excess capacity to provide middle mile broadband services to internet service providers, enabling cost-effective broadband deployment to underserved and unserved communities.

Recognizes that middle mile broadband delivery represents a cost-effective approach to bridging Hawaii's digital divide and addressing broadband access for telework, telemedicine, remote learning, and digital economy participation.

Notes that existing state and federal law provides protections against cross-subsidization and ensures non-discriminatory access to utility poles through the Federal Pole Attachment Act and Public Utilities Commission oversight.

Directs certified copies of the resolution to the Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, Public Utilities Commission, Consumer Advocacy Division, Hawaiian Electric Company, and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative.