With millions of dollars in federal funding for Washington dependent on broadband mapping data, the need for accurate information about broadband coverage in our state has never been more important. Legislation from Rep. Cindy Ryu, (D–Shoreline) aims
to double down on ongoing mapping efforts by directing the State Broadband Office (WSBO) to create a state broadband map.
HB 1746 authorizes WSBO to develop and maintain a state broadband map indicating the address
of serviceable locations and capability of broadband service in Washington. The office must make the initial map available by July 1, 2024 and must update the map at least twice per year.
Broadband service providers, called “covered entities,” in the state must submit updated data to WSBO twice per year to assist the office in developing and maintaining the state map. The information provided to the office must include detailed
end-user location address information and any information that is required to be submitted to the Federal Communications Commission.
The map’s data will be useful to the state in many ways. One important function is its use in applications for broadband infrastructure project funding. Thus, HB 1746 updates rules governing the Public Works Board’s (PWB)
broadband infrastructure funding programs. Specifically, it updates the funding application requirements such that applicants must include detailed end-user location address information for each connection (presumably sourced by the state broadband
map). The bill also modifies the process by which existing service providers near a proposed project area submit what’s called a “challenge” or objection to WSBO, demonstrating that broadband service is already provided in the area.
Providers challenging a project must have submitted broadband mapping data to WSBO within the previous year. Finally, the PWB is authorized to prioritize applicants that have submitted broadband mapping data to WSBO within the previous year.
Date to remember
HB 1746 is scheduled for public hearing in the House Innovation, Community & Economic Development, & Veterans Committee on Wednesday, February 8 at 8 am.