House subcommittees move forward on broadband
March 26, 2015
On Wednesday, a subcommittee had a hearing on House File 576, the House version of the broadband bill. Rep. Peter Cownie (R-West Des Moines), who chaired the committee, indicated there will likely be an amendment to further clarify definitions in the bill. Another subcommittee has been scheduled for next Wednesday.
A House Ways and Means subcommittee also had a hearing on House File 556. This bill sets up uniform regulation for cell tower siting. There has been discussion of possible amendments to clear up some concerns from various groups. Once the bill is in its complete form, we anticipate it will be a good complement to the broadband bill because wireless service will likely be an important aspect expanding broadband access.