An Act To Promote Rural Broadband Access

CONCEPT DRAFT SUMMARY

This bill is a concept draft pursuant to Joint Rule 208.

This bill seeks to establish a position in State Government with the mission of promoting the development of telecommunications infrastructure and capacity in rural areas of this State and to establish a challenge grant fund. This position would be charged with coordinating the State’s efforts to identify need, create options and provide support at the local level. This position would provide advocacy and technical support to help communities, businesses and nonprofits obtain funds that would help them advance their communications vision. The challenge grant fund would leverage funds available from a variety of sources, including funds currently available from the Federal Government to expand broadband access in rural areas.