The proposed bill establishes the "Rural Connectivity Innovation Act" under a new section, 288.9964, of the Florida Statutes, aimed at enhancing high-speed broadband access in underserved farming communities. It creates a state-funded grant program within the Florida Office of Broadband, which will prioritize funding for public-private partnerships and cooperative organizations that demonstrate a commitment to serving these communities. The program has an annual funding cap of $50 million and requires recipients to submit annual progress reports detailing project milestones and improvements in broadband access. Additionally, the Office of Broadband is tasked with conducting performance audits to ensure effective use of funds.

Farmers in underserved areas who invest in broadband-enabled technologies can receive state tax credits of up to $10,000 annually for eligible expenses related to the purchase, installation, and maintenance of such technologies. The bill also mandates the Office of Broadband to conduct public awareness campaigns to inform rural communities about grant opportunities and tax credits, as well as to provide technical training programs to assist farmers in adopting these technologies. The provisions of this act are set to expire on December 31, 2030, unless extended or amended by the Legislature, and it is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.