Enacts provisions relating to the department of transportation's fiber network

HB 1396 allows Missouri's Department of Transportation (DOT) to partner with private broadband providers to expand its fiber network, specifically targeting unserved and underserved areas defined by state law. The bill requires the DOT Commission to use a competitive bidding process with public notice in local newspapers and tech publications before forming these partnerships. Private partners may use excess fiber capacity to provide broadband services meeting state minimum standards, directly benefiting residents in rural or low-access areas. The law aims to accelerate broadband deployment without requiring new state funding, focusing on existing DOT infrastructure.