2016-03

Resolution Encouraging the Support of Infrastructure Buildout to Pave the Pathway for Next Generation Workers

SENATOR JUAN PICHARDO (RI) BROADBAND & TECHNOLOGY TASK FORCE

WHEREAS, mobile broadband access is critical in creating economically sustainable communities of color, including Hispanic communities; and

WHEREAS, the next generation of mobile connectivity, which promises more capable, efficient and intelligent capabilities, increases network reliability, reduces latency, provides consumers and businesses with higher speeds, and is capable of serving a greater number of wireless devices than current technology; and

WHEREAS, to ensure the success of next generation technology and the United States’ leadership in this next generation of wireless, its carriers will have to deploy small antenna infrastructure connected via wireline fiber facilities; and

WHEREAS, next generation signals cover shorter distances thus requiring several times as many smaller cells than traditional cell towers and that next generation networks work only if deployed intensively; and

WHEREAS, in order for next generation networks to have maximum impact for consumers, wireless carriers, state and local governments must work together to encourage deployment of this technology.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) affirms that local governments should balance the deployment of new generation wireless technology with local governments’ role in managing rights-of-way, maintaining safe communities, and promoting economic development; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the NHCSL affirms that local governments need to modernize its processes to enable the rapid deployment of small antenna infrastructure to support next generation networks; and

BE IT ADDITIONALLY RESOLVED that the NHCSL urges local governments to work collaboratively with businesses to bring next generation networks to their cities.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, members of the United States House of Representatives and United States Senate, the Chairman and Commissioners of the Federal Communications Commission, and other federal, state and local government officials as appropriate.

THIS RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED ON APRIL 30, 2016, AT THE NHCSL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE & BUSINESS BOARD OF ADVISORS MEETING HELD IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

Sponsored by: Senator Juan Pichardo (RI)