Minnesota has rescinded two laws that previously made it challenging for cities and towns to construct their own broadband networks. Governor Tim Walz signed the omnibus commerce policy bill this week, which eliminated the state-imposed restrictions.
Previously, Minnesota was one of approximately 20 states that placed significant limits on municipal broadband efforts. The law now allows municipalities greater autonomy in improving, constructing, and maintaining broadband facilities, even in competition with private ISPs, which was restricted since at least the year 2000.
The reform also introduces measures to ensure a level playing field between government-operated and private networks. Cities and towns are prohibited from granting themselves more favorable conditions regarding the use of public rights-of-way, publicly owned equipment, and permitting fees.
With this change, 16 states still maintain restrictions on municipal broadband. Gigi Sohn, executive director of the American Association for Public Broadband, noted that this repeal is a positive step for Minnesota’s residents and reflects a broader trend of dismantling barriers to community-owned networks nationwide.
For further details, visit the original article on Ars Technica.