The proposed bill establishes the "Farming Community Connectivity Innovation Act," which aims to enhance high-speed broadband access in underserved farming communities in Florida. It creates a state-funded grant program within the Florida Office of Broadband to support broadband infrastructure projects, with a total funding cap of $50 million annually. Eligible applicants for these grants include public-private partnerships, local governments, and cooperative organizations that demonstrate a commitment to serving these communities. Recipients of the grants are required to submit annual progress reports and are subject to performance audits to ensure effective use of funds.
Additionally, the bill provides tax credits of up to $10,000 annually for farmers in underserved areas who invest in broadband-enabled technologies. The Florida Office of Broadband is tasked with conducting public awareness campaigns to inform communities about grant opportunities and tax credits, as well as providing 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.