SB215 Alabama 2021 Session

This bill would create the Alabama Digital Expansion Authority to oversee the expansion and availability of high-speed broadband services throughout the state

This bill would require the authority to develop and execute a Statewide Connectivity Plan and establish and administer the Connect Alabama Program, including the awarding of broadband accessibility grants

This bill would create the Connect Alabama Advisory Board to make recommendations to the authority to efficiently accomplish the objectives and duties required under the bill

This bill would also create the Alabama University Research Alliance and the Alabama Digital Finance Corporation to further support the objectives of the Alabama Digital Expansion Authority

Relating to broadband; to create the Alabama Digital Expansion Authority; to provide for the membership and duties of the authority; to provide for the appointment of a director and employees of the authority; to create the Connect Alabama Fund for the deposit of appropriations, gifts, grants, and other funds; to create the Connect Alabama Advisory Board; to provide that the authority is exempt from competitive bid laws; to require certain reports to the Legislature and the public; to provide general rulemaking authority; and to create the Alabama University Research Alliance; to provide for its members and duties; to create the Alabama Digital Finance Corporation; and to provide for its members and duties.