The bill amends Section 67-4761 of the Idaho Code to revise the composition of the Idaho Broadband Advisory Board. The board will now include two nonvoting members with experience and knowledge of the broadband industry, one appointed by the speaker of the house and the other by the president pro tempore of the senate. This change aims to enhance the board's expertise in broadband matters. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the grant award process for the Idaho broadband fund will be conducted by an independent third party, which will evaluate and provide recommendations to the advisory board.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the board's responsibility in creating a statewide broadband plan, which will guide the structuring, prioritizing, and dispersing of grants to areas in need. The advisory board is required to solicit participation from state agencies with relevant expertise and must file the adopted plan with the governor and make it publicly accessible. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-4761