H 5290 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act to streamline broadband permitting and ensure equitable access to infrastructure

This bill amends state law to speed up the permitting process for broadband internet infrastructure and promote open access networks where multiple providers can share physical facilities. It requires state and local governments to approve permit applications within 45 days and mandates that infrastructure owners grant timely, cost-based access to broadband providers. The legislation also establishes rules for "dig once" policies to include conduits during excavations, creates a registry for qualified contractors, and sets up enforcement mechanisms with potential fines for non-compliance.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 25, 2026 Last action Mar 25, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
2
Committee
2
Mar 25, 2026
Lower · Passed
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
lower
Mar 25, 2026
Lower · Passed
Reported from the committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy
lower
0 primary · 7 co-sponsors

Sponsors

No sponsor information available.