Signed by Governor Tom Wolf

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that expands 5G wireless broadband access for rural Pennsylvanians.

Highlights:

• Defines “collocation” or “collocate” as to install, mount, maintain, modify, or replace small wireless facilities on an existing utility pole or other wireless support structure (Sec. 2).

• Defines “right-of-way” as the area on, below, or above a public roadway, highway, street, sidewalk, alley, utility easement or similar property (Sec. 2). 

• Defines “small wireless facility” as they equipment and network components, including antennas, transmitters and receivers, used by a wireless provider that include the following qualifications (Sec 2):

• Each antenna associated with the deployment is no more than 3 cubic feet in volume; and

• The volume of all other equipment associated with the wireless facility is cumulatively no more than 28 cubic feet.

• Requires a wireless provider to have the right to perform the following within the right-of-way (Sec. 3):

• Collocate; and

• Replace an existing utility pole or instal a new utility pole with attached small wireless facilities.

• Requires all structures and facilities be installed and maintained in a way that will not obstruct travel or public safety within the right-of-way (Sec. 3).

• Requires that each new or modified small wireless facility installed on an existing utility pole or a new utility pole be subject to the following conditions (Sec. 3):

• Requires that the installation of a small wireless facility on an existing utility pole not extend more than 5 feet above the pole; or

• Authorizes a small wireless facility to be installed on a new or replacement utility pole if collocation on an existing utility pole does not work, but cannot be taller than 50 feet above ground level.

• Authorizes any municipality to deny an application if the small wireless facility interferes with any of the following (Sec. 4):

• Sight lines or clear zones for transportation or pedestrians;

• Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; or 

• Similar Federal or State standards regarding pedestrian access or movement.

Full Bill Text