The bill amends and reenacts several sections of Louisiana law related to the regulation of broadband services, specifically focusing on the GUMBO program. Key changes include increasing the administration fee from one percent to two and one-half percent of appropriated funds for the GUMBO 1.0 program, allowing the office to hire third-party contractors for program administration. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the reimbursement of grantees, specifying that the office may withhold only the final payment to a provider in cases of damage to underground utilities, contingent upon a court's final judgment. It also establishes that the office cannot withhold progress payments and must follow a structured rulemaking process for any withholding of final disbursements.

Furthermore, the bill creates a new grant program, GUMBO 3.0, which will utilize remaining GUMBO 2.0 funds to address various challenges in sectors such as economic development and healthcare. This program will allow eligible parties to apply for grants, with an obligation deadline set for December 12, 2024. The grants awarded under GUMBO 3.0 will be subject to the Louisiana Procurement Code and may utilize alternative procurement methods as deemed appropriate by the commissioner of administration. The bill also repeals R.S. 51:2370.51 in its entirety, streamlining the regulatory framework for broadband services in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
SB80 Original: 51:32(B)
SB80 Engrossed: 51:32(B)
SB80 Reengrossed: 51:32(B)
SB80 Enrolled: 51:32(B)
SB80 Act : 51:32(B)