The Comptroller of Public Accounts proposes amendments to §16.30, concerning definitions.

The amendments to §16.30 increase the threshold speeds for internet service to qualify as broadband service to match the standards adopted by the Federal Communications Commission for advanced telecommunications capability under 47 U.S.C., §1302 as contemplated under Senate Bill 1238, §1, 88th Legislature, R.S., 2023 (amending Government Code, §490I.0101(b)).

Brad Reynolds, Chief Revenue Estimator, has determined that during the first five years that the proposed amended rule is in effect, the rule: will not create or eliminate a government program; will not require the creation or elimination of employee positions; will not require an increase or decrease in future legislative appropriations to the agency; will not require an increase or decrease in fees paid to the agency; will not increase or decrease the number of individuals subject to the rule's applicability; and will not positively or adversely affect this state's economy.

Mr. Reynolds also has determined that the proposed amended rule would have no significant fiscal impact on the state government, units of local government, or individuals. The proposed amended rule would benefit the public by conforming the rule to current federal standards. There would be no anticipated significant economic cost to the public. The proposed amended rule would have no fiscal impact on small businesses or rural communities.

You may submit comments on the proposal to Greg Conte, Director, Broadband Development Office, at broadband@cpa.texas.gov or at P.O. Box 13528, Austin, Texas 78711-3528. The comptroller must receive your comments no later than 30 days from the date of publication of the proposal in the Texas Register.

The amendments are proposed under Government Code, §490I.0101(b), which permits the comptroller by rule to adopt standards for internet service that match the standards adopted by the Federal Communications Commission for advanced telecommunications capability under 47 U.S.C., §1302 and under Government Code, §490I.0109, which permits the comptroller to adopt rules as necessary to implement Chapter 490I regarding the Texas Broadband Development Office.

The amendments implement Government Code, Chapter 490I.