MN HF2475

Repeals existing Minnesota Statutes Chapter 237 and replaces it with new Chapter 237A, streamlining telecommunications regulation and updating definitions, penalties, and regulatory requirements

Establishes limited commission jurisdiction over wholesale telecommunications services, basic residential services, intrastate interexchange services, and intrastate access services; removes commission authority over rates, tariffs, market entry/exit, and other matters for entities electing Chapter 237A coverage

Creates universal service fund supported by all telecommunications providers to preserve availability of universal service and enhance broadband deployment; establishes telecommunications access Minnesota (TAM) program for communication devices and relay services for disabled persons

Authorizes local government units to manage public rights-of-way used by telecommunications providers through permitting, registration, and fee collection for actual management costs; requires uniform statewide construction standards adopted by Public Utilities Commission

Imposes antislamming protections requiring customer authorization for long-distance provider changes, establishes disclosure requirements for service providers, and creates penalties of $100-$5,000 per day for violations; sets civil penalty limits and enforcement mechanisms