Signed by Governor Mark Gordon

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes the use of federal funds for broadband internet development and the connect Wyoming program.

Highlights:

• Defines "Connect Wyoming" as the program created by the council that used available CARES Act funds for broadband development projects in Wyoming necessary to respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency by bringing faster and more reliable broadband internet service in unserved and underserved areas (Sec. 1.a.ii).

• Defines "covered period" as the period beginning on the effective date of this act and ending on the last date of the period specified by federal law for which allowable costs may be incurred (Sec. 1.a.iv).

• Specifies "council" means the Wyoming business council (Sec. 1.a.iii).

• Appropriates funds to the council an amount determined by the legislature from any unexpended, unobligated funds appropriated in 2020 Wyoming Special Session Lawsas authorized and made available for expenditure (Sec. 1.b).

• Requires any funds appropriated under this subsection to be used only for broadband internet development projects through the Connect Wyoming program and consistent with the terms of the federal gift, grant, or appropriation from which the funds originate. This appropriation will not be transferred or expended for any other purpose. Any unobligated, unexpended funds remaining from this appropriation on the last day of the covered period will revert as provided by law (Sec. 1.b).

Full Bill Text