Agenda Item 2c: TARA Legislative Summary — original pdf

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FY21 Legislative Briefing: Telecommunications Policy 11/19/20 Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission City of Austin, Office of Telecom & Regulatory Affairs 1 Federal Legislative Program ● Drafted by Office of Telecom & Regulatory Affairs Office ● Reviewed by Intergovernmental Relations Telecommunications ● Adopted by Austin City Council at November TARA 12, 2020 meeting ● City contracted Lobbyist Teams will represent Issues for the upcoming 117th Congress B I r n o t e a r d n b e a t n d n ble Televisio a C 2 Federal Legislative Program Principle: The City recognizes that competition in telecommunications, broadband, and cable TV services can yield more content distribution and applications, better customer service, affordable rates for all, and technology deployment that meet the needs of all residents to engage in a digital society. The COVID19 pandemic exacerbated the deep digital divide in our community and elevated the need for equitable, affordable, and adequate internet connectivity. 3 Federal Legislative Program ● The City supports preserving local authority; ● The City opposes any preemption of City zoning authority; ● The City encourages Congress to provide funding for access to broadband services and digital literacy skills training; ● The City strongly supports policies and funding to increase access to reliable and affordable internet services and require greater transparency and disclosure of pricing and of how personal data are collected and used; ● The City urges Congress to remove the unnecessary regulatory restriction requiring PEG funds. 4 Texas Legislative Agenda ● Drafted by Office of Telecom & Regulatory ● Reviewed by Intergovernmental Relations Public Infrastructure Affairs Office ● Adopted by Austin City Council at September TARA M A u u t n i h c o i p r i t y a l e u n eve R 17, 2020 meeting ● City contracted Lobbyist Teams and local Delegation of Representatives will represent Issues for the upcoming 87th State Legislature 5 Texas Legislative Agenda ● Protect the City’s ability to manage and control public rights‐of‐way; ● Oppose legislation that limits the City’s ability to regulate and enforce the City’s building codes, land use and zoning regulations; ● Support legislation that protects or enhances municipal revenues and the flexibility to use such revenues. 6 C End City of Austin, Office of Telecom & Regulatory Affairs John Speirs, Program Manager John.Speirs@austintexas.gov 7