SB 943

Abstract

Establishes Broadband Service Infrastructure Program within Oregon Broadband Office for purpose of offsetting cost of planning and developing high speed broadband service infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas. Requires eligible applicants that are awarded grant or loan to enter into performance agreement to plan and develop broadband service infrastructure within designated geographic area that reaches 95 percent or more of customers in geographic area and provides broadband service at speed of at least 100 megabits per second for downloads and uploads with capability to provide speeds of one gigabit per second for downloads and uploads. Requires Oregon Business Development Department to adopt initial rules and standards to carry out Broadband Service Infrastructure Program no later than December 31, 2023. Clarifies that moneys in Broadband Fund are appropriated to Oregon Business Development Department for purpose of providing grants or loans under program established by rule under section 5, chapter 17, Oregon Laws 2020 (first special session). Requires Oregon Business Development Department, through Oregon Broadband Office, to establish program to provide grants or loans to eligible applicants to support residents and businesses that are located within high-cost broadband service area having access to broadband services at rates that are reasonably comparable to rates in areas that are outside of high-cost broadband service areas. Requires Oregon Broadband Advisory Council to include in biennial report evaluation of continuing need for temporary program for providing grants or loans to support projects for planning and development of broadband service infrastructure and digital literacy, inclusion and adoption. Declares emergency, effective on passage.