As state lawmakers continue to finalize the state budget after extending this year’s legislative session deadline to June 6, Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a handful of bills into law, including SB 344, which updates the Telecommunications Access System Act of 1991.
Filed on Jan. 27 by Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, R-40, SB 344 will revise the powers and duties of the Florida Public Service Commission in overseeing the administration of the Telecommunications Access System Act of 1991. It allows for greater use of new and emerging technology in providing telecommunications access for those with communication impairments under the law.
Specific changes include updating procedures to distribute telecommunication devices within the state and modifying the system administrator’s responsibilities to improve accessibility to telecommunications services for individuals with hearing loss, speech impairments, or who are deaf or blind.
The Florida Public Service Commission generally regulates essential electric, natural gas, water and wastewater services and oversees various telecommunications services, including competitive markets and intercarrier disputes.
These changes will go into effect on July 1, 2025.
DeSantis Signs Update to Telecommunications Access System Act
Starting July 1, the law will allow for greater use of emerging tech, reflect new procedures for distributing telecommunication devices within the state and modify the responsibilities of the system’s administrator.
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