Bill > H0170

This bill amends the existing law regarding the Idaho Broadband Advisory Board by expanding its composition and modifying its grant award process. Specifically, the bill adds two new nonvoting members to the board - one appointed by the Speaker of the House and one by the Senate President Pro Tempore, both of whom must have experience and knowledge of the broadband industry. The most significant change is the requirement that any grant award process be conducted and evaluated by an independent third party, who will then provide recommendations to the advisory board. The board will continue to be responsible for creating a statewide broadband plan that determines how to prioritize and distribute grants from the Idaho Broadband Fund to areas most in need. The bill also maintains existing provisions about board responsibilities, such as soliciting input from state agencies, filing and publishing the plan, and allowing agencies to petition for plan revisions. The amendment will take effect on July 1, 2025, and is being implemented with an emergency clause to emphasize its immediate importance.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Local Government Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0170/