JEFFERSON CITY The Missouri Municipal League and local government officials across the state are disappointed that SB650, the Uniform Wireless Communications Infrastructure Deployment Act, has passed in the legislature and was signed by Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon. The group has labeled this a "damaging bill."

The MML believes that the bill:

• diminishes and undermines municipalities responsibility for land use and zoning regulations, causing a negative impact on the character of communities across the state and allows a cell phone provider to replace or upgrade equipment used to provide wireless telecommunications services on or in existing structures with no local government zoning review or even a public hearing. SB650 was sponsored by Sen. Brad Lager (R-12).

• does not allow communities to require any type of screening or landscaping related to the appearance of these facilities, and does not allow the requirement of removing abandoned facilities

Numerous city officials from across Missouri provided testimony to legislators urging them not to pass this bill.

Local officials support the expansion and upgrade of wireless telecommunication services. However, the expansion now comes at the expense of well-established local oversight that protects the quality of life for citizens, MML believes.

Missouri cities have a strong history of consistently working successfully with wireless providers, said MML Executive Director Dan Ross. There was simply not a problem to be fixed.

SB650, by its own supporters testimony, was put in place to remove potential impediments.

The Missouri Municipal League provides a united voice for municipalities across Missouri. Founded in 1934, MML now serves more than 670 municipalities with training, resources and legislative advocacy for local government success.

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