The bill amends RCW 43.155.160 to modify the eligibility criteria for the broadband service expansion grant and loan program in Washington State. It expands the list of eligible applicants to include multiparty entities comprised of public entity members, while removing limited liability corporations and incorporated businesses from the list. The bill also emphasizes the board's responsibility to establish a competitive grant and loan program aimed at promoting broadband access in unserved areas, detailing the application process and the information required from applicants.

Additionally, the bill outlines the evaluation criteria for applications, prioritizing projects in unserved areas and those that demonstrate community support and readiness. It establishes a framework for addressing objections from existing broadband service providers and sets conditions for funding, including limits on the percentage of project costs that can be covered by state funds. The bill also introduces provisions for emergency public works broadband projects, allowing for low-interest or interest-free loans or grants to address infrastructure needs resulting from natural disasters or unforeseen events.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.155.160