Compromise Reached On Bill Regulating Wireless Antenna Location

A compromise has been reached on an Ohio bill allowing telecommunications companies to place wireless antennas on municipal buildings within city limits. The legislation followed lawsuits filed last year by municipalities who said a previous law prohibited cities from effectively managing where wireless facilities are placed. The plaintiffs say that law violated the Home Rule rights of cities in the Ohio Constitution. The new bill allows communities to regulate the appearance and placement of the devices. The bill also regulates construction of new signal towers.