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Communities Overregulating Networks Need Economic Competition Today Act

1/11/2023, 1:47 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1149

Bill 117 hr 1149, also known as the Communities Overregulating Networks Need Economic Competition Today Act, aims to address the issue of overregulation of broadband networks by local governments. The bill seeks to promote economic competition in the telecommunications industry by prohibiting local governments from creating barriers to entry for new broadband providers.

Specifically, the bill prohibits local governments from imposing regulations that hinder or delay the deployment of broadband infrastructure. It also prevents local governments from granting exclusive rights to broadband providers, which can stifle competition and limit consumer choice.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to streamline the permitting process for broadband infrastructure projects, making it easier for providers to expand their networks and reach underserved communities. This is particularly important in rural areas where access to high-speed internet is limited. Overall, the Communities Overregulating Networks Need Economic Competition Today Act aims to promote competition, innovation, and investment in the telecommunications industry by removing barriers to entry for new broadband providers. By fostering a more competitive marketplace, the bill seeks to improve access to high-speed internet for all Americans.

Congressional Summary of HR 1149

Communities Overregulating Networks Need Economic Competition Today Act or the CONNECT Act

This bill prohibits a state or political subdivision thereof from providing or selling broadband internet access service. Such provision or sale may continue if there is no more than one other commercial provider of broadband internet access that provides competition in a particular area.

Current Status of Bill HR 1149

Bill HR 1149 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 18, 2021. Bill HR 1149 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on February 18, 2021.  Bill HR 1149's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. as of February 19, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1149

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1149

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Potential Impact Areas

- Emergency communications systems
- Government information and archives
- Internet and video services
- Internet, web applications, social media
- State and local government operations

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1149

Communities Overregulating Networks Need Economic Competition Today Act
To prohibit a State or political subdivision thereof from providing or offering for sale to the public retail or wholesale broadband internet access service, and for other purposes.
Communities Overregulating Networks Need Economic Competition Today Act
CONNECT Act

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