(a) In the operation of the statewide open-access middle-mile broadband network, the office may establish reasonable user policies, perform reasonable network management practices, and create related standards and policies.

(b) The office shall ensure that there is a variety of services offered to internet service providers or other eligible entities on the statewide open-access middle-mile broadband network.

(c) Where feasible, the office shall consider if the term of access to dark fiber shall be no less than a 20-year indefeasible right to use.

(d) Where feasible, the office shall consider including excess conduit capacity in projects to ensure for potential growth of the statewide open-access middle-mile broadband network.

(e) Where available, the office may only enter into an agreement for the indefeasible right-to-use fiber if the leased facilities and the number of fiber strands will deliver speeds comparable to those broadband facilities built or jointly built pursuant to this chapter.

(f) This section does not prohibit the office from making a grant of dark fiber strands for purposes of enhancing the California Research and Education Network.

(Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 45, Sec. 16. (AB 127) Effective July 10, 2023.)