Experienced voices are critical when developing public policy, especially when we are trying to advance free market solutions. Laws should not form in a vacuum or theoretical world without those who understand the industry realities being in the room to help inform the discussions.
The Idaho Legislature has approved House Bill 299, which would strengthen the Idaho Broadband Advisory Board and bring qualified professionals from the broadband industry to the table when discussing any broadband policy. This approach will make grant distribution more efficient and ensure the best decisions are being made for the people of Idaho.
The advisory board currently consists of legislative members and public appointees. HB 299 also makes a big change by adding nonvoting members with broadband-specific expertise to the board. These members can lend real-world experience and important thoughtful perspectives that members of both the advisory board and the legislature cannot always bring. This helps ensure that the policymaking process is informed by firsthand experience, and decisions are made based on the insights of those who understand broadband systems and infrastructure the best.
The bill also adds an essential component in the determination of grant awards, which will be considered by an independent third party. Adding this new portion of code ensures decisions related to broadband grants are made in a transparent manner and free from outside influence. The third-party will review broadband proposals based on their merits and potential and will make recommendations to the advisory board in order to shape the state’s broadband future efficiently and fairly.
Bringing in experienced voices doesn’t just enhance the quality of decisions, it helps to remove roadblocks that are delaying the progress of the industry. For policymakers, it is important to facilitate an environment that propels the free market rather than being an obstacle to it. HB 299 is a positive step working toward broadband policies that are meant to be innovative and to be guided by those with the best knowledge of the industry.
HB 299 is currently awaiting action by Governor Little.