HI SR107

Urges the Public Utilities Commission to create an efficient, streamlined review process for electric utility requests to provide middle mile broadband services under Hawaii Revised Statutes section 269-19.

Supports electric utilities leveraging excess capacity on existing utility telecommunications infrastructure to provide middle mile broadband services to internet service providers and third parties without duplicating efforts.

Requests the Public Utilities Commission consider developing a standardized application requiring sufficient information to enable streamlined review rather than relying on discovery processes.

Directs the Public Utilities Commission to maintain fair competition and level playing field in the telecommunications infrastructure industry while expediting broadband deployment to unserved and underserved areas.

Requires transmission of certified resolution copies to the Public Utilities Commission Chairperson, Consumer Advocacy Division, Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc., and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative.