Statement On Hawaii Governor Ige’s Signing of Small Cell Legislation

The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) issued the following statement from President and CEO Jonathan Adelstein regarding Hawaii Governor Ige’s Signing of Small Cell Legislation.

“The bill Gov. David Ige signed into law today will make Hawaii a nationwide leader in developing small cell wireless infrastructure. This cutting-edge technology will deliver economic growth and high-paying jobs by improving broadband access throughout Hawaii.

“We are grateful for the leadership of Senator Rosalyn Baker, Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health; Senator Glenn Wakai, Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Technology; Representative Takashi Ohno, Chair of the House Committee on Intrastate Commerce; and Representative Roy Takumi, Chair of the House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce.”

Background: On Thursday June 21, Hawaii Gov. David Ige signed into law legislation that “Establishes a process to upgrade and support next-generation wireless broadband infrastructure throughout the State. Establishes a permitting, application, review, and approval process for small wireless providers or communications service providers to install wireless facilities on state or county solely-owned utility poles, or install associated utility poles, in the right of way. Applies to permit applications filed with the State or county after December 31, 2018. (HB2651 CD1)

About WIA: The Wireless Infrastructure Association represents the companies that make up the wireless infrastructure ecosystem in the United States. Members include wireless carriers, infrastructure providers, and professional services firms that collectively own and operate more than 135,000 telecommunications facilities around the globe. Through public affairs and advocacy efforts – on the local, state and federal level – WIA works to support the widespread deployment of the wireless infrastructure in order to deliver broadband access to all citizens and communities.

Contacts: Kekoa McClellan at kekoamcclellan@gmail.com at 808-393-7937 or Ben Hammer at ben@hammerstrategies.com or 202.431.9036.