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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20251006News Release.pdf Idaho Public Utilities Commission Brad Littte,Governor P.O. Box 83720. Boise. ID 83720-0074 Edward Lodge, Resident John R.Hamnwnd, Jr.,Commissioner Dayn Hardie,Commissioner Case No. RUL-U-25-01 Contact: Adam Rush Office: (208) 334-0339 E-mail: adam.rush@puc.idaho.gov NEWS RELEASE: Commission schedules public hearing to take testimony on proposed rule that governs process of attaching equipment to utility poles. BOISE (Oct. 6, 2025)—The Idaho Public Utilities Commission will hold a public hearing on Oct. 16, 2025, to take testimony on updating the rule that manages how telecom companies partner with utilities to install telecommunications, cable and broadband equipment on utility poles. In the 2025 legislative session, House Bill 180a was passed. The bill updated and replaced the previous rule on pole attachments, and directed the Commission to establish a new rule regarding the permitting process. The rule is intended to improve broadband deployment, and resolve disputes between telecom companies and utilities involving pole attachments. The Commission regulates pole attachment rates, terms and conditions. The proposed rule it will be taking testimony on covers when a utility can deny an application to have equipment installed, how much a telecom company can be fined for installing equipment without permission and how long the permitting process will take, among other items. The hearing will begin at 10:00 a.m. (MDT) on Oct. 16. It will be held at the Commission's office, 11331 W. Chinden Blvd., Building 8, Suite 201-A, Boise, ID 83714. Those interested in listening to the hearing remotely can call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2870 917 0949 when prompted. The Commission is accepting written comments on proposed changes until Oct. 22, 2025. Comments can be e-mailed to secretary@puc.idaho.gov. If computer access is not available, comments can be mailed to: Commission Secretary Idaho Public Utilities Commission 11331 W. Chinden Blvd. Building 8, Suite 201-A Boise, ID 83714 Additional information is available at: puc.idaho.gov/case/Details/7606.