MS HB1675

Authorizes the City of Okolona's governing authorities to establish, acquire, and own broadband affiliates to provide broadband services utilizing the city's electric delivery system in Chickasaw, Monroe, Lee, and Clay counties.

Allows broadband affiliates or unaffiliated broadband operators to own, construct, and operate broadband systems on the city's electric delivery infrastructure, with the city retaining sole discretion to grant exclusive access to broadband capacity.

Requires the city to charge broadband affiliates the same fees as unaffiliated private entities and prohibits using electric energy revenues to subsidize broadband service provision; however, permits capital investments, loans at fair market rates, and loan guarantees for affiliates.

Mandates an economic feasibility study and board-approved plan ensuring service to the entire certificated area before broadband services may begin; prohibits requiring broadband purchases as a condition of receiving electricity and bars disconnecting electric service for unpaid broadband bills.

Clarifies that broadband system installation on electric delivery infrastructure is not an additional burden on real property and does not require landowner consent; prohibits interference with investor-owned utility property.