Governor's Veto Gives Locals Control Over 5G Infrastructure in California

A bill designed to streamline the implementation of 5G Internet infrastructure onto public poles and lights has been vetoed by California Governor Jerry Brown.

1 minute read

October 16, 2017, 1:00 PM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

Niyazz / Shutterstock

California Governor Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that would have implemented statewide mandates for the installation of high-speed "small cell" equipment that will usher in a new era of 5G internet service.

Senate Bill 649 "would have downsized the role played by city and county officials in setting limits on where the equipment for new 5G cellular service would be placed," reports John Myers. "Local governments would have had less power to unilaterally block the installation of the devices, which Brown said in his veto message was a problem."

As explained in a July post that picked up on the emerging controversy over 5G infrastructure, small cell networking gear would be placed on public poles and streetlights—potentially creating more clutter and visual blight in the public realm.

Governor Brown's veto of the project effectively sides with local governments on a matter of local vs. state control as this new generation of Internet technology is built into the infrastructure systems of cities and communities in California.

FULL STORY: Gov. Jerry Brown sides with local governments, vetoes state rules for installing 5G cellular equipment

Monday, October 16, 2017 in Los Angeles Times

Government / Politics Infrastructure Technology California Internet Infrastructure 5G Local Control State Control Gubernatorial Veto Senate Bill 649 Telecommunications State Preemption View More

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