MN HF3554

Adds wireless telecommunications service providers to Minnesota Statutes section 222.37, allowing them to use public roads for constructing, using, operating, and maintaining lines and equipment subject to local government regulations and notice requirements.

Establishes a 13-member task force consisting of representatives from local governments, wireless providers, telecommunications infrastructure industry, and public members to study deployment of small wireless telecommunications facilities.

Task force shall identify and analyze issues including local government and provider concerns, statewide access goals, best practices for application approval processes, and necessary legal changes to improve wireless network deployment.

Requires task force to submit findings and recommendations to legislative committees with jurisdiction over local government and telecommunications, and to the governor, by January 15, 2017, with report potentially in the form of proposed legislation.

Task force expires January 15, 2017; meetings subject to open meetings law; commissioner of commerce provides administrative support; members receive no compensation.