Provisions governing broadband workforce plan data modified, investigative authority modified, and provisions governing underground telecommunications infrastructure modified.

HF 844 modifies Minnesota's broadband workforce reporting, investigative authority for utility infrastructure, and underground telecommunications installation rules. It requires broadband grantees serving over 100,000 customers to report detailed workforce data - including demographic breakdowns (e.g., Minnesota residents, people of color, women), pay rates ($25+ hourly), and benefits - annually. The bill also mandates that underground telecommunications installations near existing utilities must be performed by "safety-qualified installers" (with two present during directional drilling), starting July 2025 in the metro area and statewide by 2028. These provisions directly affect broadband providers, contractors, and telecommunications carriers working on infrastructure projects.