HB189 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Randall Shedd

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

Broadband, Connect Alabama Act of 2021 amended, minimum service threshold increased, Alabama Digital Expansion Division chief authorized to enter nondisclosure agreements, Connect Alabama Fund expenditure amended, Secs. 41-23-271, 41-23-273, 41-23-274 am'd.

Summary

HB189 updates the Connect Alabama Act by raising the minimum broadband speed, expanding how Connect Alabama Fund money can be used, and allowing nondisclosure agreements to protect provider data.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the minimum internet service threshold would be raised to 100 Mbps downstream and 20 Mbps upstream. The Alabama Digital Expansion Division chief would be authorized to sign nondisclosure agreements to protect provider-specific information. All funds in the Connect Alabama Fund could be used for last-mile infrastructure in unserved areas as well as middle-mile and line-extension programs, instead of the previous 70% limit for last-mile funding, with annual adjustments possible based on division recommendations and authority approval.

Who It Affects

• Residents and businesses in unserved areas, who could benefit from expanded funding for last-mile, middle-mile, and line-extension broadband projects.
• Broadband providers, whose provider-specific information would be protected under nondisclosure agreements and kept confidential unless the provider approves release.

Key Provisions

• Minimum service threshold increased to at least 100 Mbps downstream and 20 Mbps upstream.
• Division chief may enter into nondisclosure agreements to protect provider-specific information; such information remains confidential and is only used for mapping, policy development, grant eligibility, and advancing state broadband goals.
• Connect Alabama Fund funds may be used for last-mile infrastructure in unserved areas and for middle-mile and line-extension programs; funds are not limited to a 70% last-mile allocation.
• Program funds may be modified annually based on a recommendation from the Alabama Digital Expansion Division and approval by the Alabama Digital Expansion Authority.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Broadband