This bill, introduced by Representative Deshotel, enacts a new section, R.S. 51:2370.17, which focuses on broadband initiatives in Louisiana. It specifically addresses the use of unobligated funds from the Granting Unserved Municipalities Broadband Opportunities (GUMBO) 1.0 program as of June 3, 2024. The bill allows the office to utilize these funds for eligible non-broadband infrastructure projects as defined by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's guidance on the Coronavirus Capital Project Fund.
Additionally, the bill authorizes the office to create necessary rules and scoring criteria for the allocation and use of these funds. This legislative action aims to enhance broadband access and infrastructure in unserved municipalities while ensuring that any remaining funds are effectively utilized for related projects.