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 grant award grading and scoring may be conducted by an independent third party at the discretion of the advisory board, which will provide recommendations based on their evaluations.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the advisory board, including the creation of a statewide broadband plan to prioritize and distribute grants from the Idaho broadband fund. The board is tasked with soliciting input from state agencies and ensuring cooperation in the development of the broadband plan. Once adopted, the plan will be filed with the governor and made publicly accessible. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-4761