PROVIDENCE – The R.I. House of Representatives passed legislation on June 20 that would pave the way for Rhode Island to be among the first states to adopt a next-generation 5G wireless network.
Bill H5224, known as the Small Cell Siting Act, would allow wireless service providers to install the equipment necessary to establish a 5G network in Rhode Island using existing infrastructure such as poles, water towers, buildings and other public structures. It would not allow providers to install anything on private property, however, without the owner’s permission.
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The term “5G” refers to the fifth generation of wireless mobile networks, currently in development as a replacement for the 4G network standard in use by wireless service providers today. The Next Generation Mobile Networks Alliance predicts that 5G networks will provide faster wireless speeds, improve wireless coverage and enable the cutting-edge technologies of the future such as the Internet of Things.
Service providers are expected to begin the rollout of 5G by 2020, the NGMN Alliance said.
Rep. Stephen R. Ucci, D-Johnston, who sponsored the legislation, said his bill would encourage high-tech businesses to flourish in the state and enable Rhode Islanders to take advantage of the fastest wireless speeds available.
“Making Rhode Island an easy place for telecommunications firms to set up 5G technology would be an economic-development tool for Rhode Island,” said Ucci in a statement. “We would be ahead of many other states, and it would make us attractive to tech companies that want the newest, fastest communication technology available. Ordinary Rhode Islanders would also be able to take advantage of the network to enjoy the same advantages.”
Under Ucci’s bill, the installation of 5G equipment would still be subject to normal building, electrical or public right-of-way use or work permits, along with other permits ordinarily required of a communications service provider. However, the bill would ensure that no new laws or fees are put in place to limit or discourage wireless service providers from installing a 5G network.
“This is a way for our state to, at no financial cost to us, encourage private investment and reap the rewards of increased economic activity,” said Ucci.
Following the House’s passage of the bill, the legislation was referred to the R.I. Senate, where Sen. Louis P. DiPalma, D-Middletown, has sponsored companion bill S0342.
For more information about the bill, visit the R.I. General Assembly’s website.
Kaylen Auer is a PBN reporter.
