Technology

HB 825 amends Pennsylvania's public utilities law to allow utility companies to install "double utility poles" that carry both power lines and communication lines (like fiber optic cables) on the same pole structure. This change directly affects public utility providers regulated under Title 66 by altering their permitted infrastructure options. The key provision modifies the utilities' powers and duties to facilitate this dual-use pole configuration, potentially streamlining infrastructure deployment. Specific impacts on communities, costs, or regulatory details are not described in the provided context.

HB 407 creates a new criminal offense for unauthorized location tracking in Pennsylvania, making it illegal to install or use technology (such as apps or devices) to monitor someone's location without their consent. Exceptions include law enforcement during investigations, parents tracking minor children, guardians monitoring incapacitated persons, and other specific scenarios like fleet vehicle tracking with proper consent. The bill does not change existing stalking laws but adds this new provision to address technology-enabled harassment. It directly affects individuals who might use location-tracking tools to harass others, while clarifying permitted uses for safety and legal purposes.