SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6426

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of January 16, 2018

Title: An act relating to extending existing telecommunications authority to all ports in Washington state in order to facilitate public-private partnerships in wholesale telecommunications services and infrastructure.

Brief Description: Extending existing telecommunications authority to all ports in Washington state in order to facilitate public-private partnerships in wholesale telecommunications services and infrastructure.

Sponsors: Senators Wellman, Chase, Warnick, Sheldon, McCoy, Cleveland, Rivers and Wilson.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Energy, Environment & Technology: 1/17/18.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Authorizes any port district in existence as of June 8, 2000, to acquire and operate telecommunications facilities for wholesale telecommunications services outside of their district.

  • Authorizes any port districts in existence as of June 8, 2000, to acquire and operate telecommunications facilities for their own internal use, and wholesale telecommunications services outside of their district.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT & TECHNOLOGY

Staff: Jan Odano (786-7486)

Background: A rural port district in existence on June 8, 2000, may acquire and operate telecommunications facilities for their own internal telecommunications needs within and outside of its district and to provide wholesale telecommunications services within its district limits.

 

Rural port districts providing wholesale services must:

Rural port districts may not charge preferential or discriminatory rates to its non-telecommunications operations or exercise powers of eminent domain to acquire telecommunications facilities or contractual rights to such facilities.

A rural port district is defined as one located in a county with an average population density of less than 100 persons per square mile.

The Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) regulates utilities and transportation services to ensure fair pricing, availability, reliability, and safety. The UTC may be petitioned by a person who believes rates, terms and conditions are discriminatory or preferential.

Summary of Bill: The authority to acquire and operate telecommunications facilities to provide wholesale telecommunications services within and outside district limits is extending to port district in existence on June 8, 2000.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.