Ohio state budget proposal threatens municipal broadband networks (updated)

Public officials in Ohio fear that language in the state's proposed $75 billion budget could put municipal broadband internet services out of business. The language, which appears aimed at protecting private broadband providers, was inserted without prior public discussion during recent Ohio Senate deliberations on the state's two-year budget. Local officials say this would endanger planned upgrades to public safety services, improved school and library services, plus business and economic development tools. Multiple counties are voting on resolutions condemning the language as well as trying to increase public awareness of the issue. State legislators must agree on a common document by June 30th for the proposed budget to be enacted. If it passes, Ohio will join 18 other states that have severely restricted or banned municipal broadband service, and officials say the provision will likely face numerous court challenges. FairlawnGig, Hudson, Wadsworth and more than 30 other municipal broadband providers in Ohio are threatened by the provision.