HB 22-1306

House Bill 22-1306, also known as the Broadband Deployment Board Grant Processes bill, updates how Colorado awards grants for broadband deployment projects using federal funds. It shortens the public comment period for grant applications from 60 days to 45 days and allows grantees more time to complete their projects if supply chain disruptions cause delays. The bill also sets up an appeals process for decisions made by the Broadband Deployment Board regarding these grants. Since it has been signed into law, this bill is now active and its provisions are being implemented.

Official Summary

In 2021, the general assembly authorized the broadband deployment board (board) to award money that the state received under the federal "American Rescue Plan Act of 2021" (federal act) for broadband deployment projects. The act updates the requirements for awarding grant money pursuant to the federal act to require that applications comply with finalized federal regulations regarding use of money under the federal act. The act also: Reduces the notice and comment period for an interested party to review and comment on a grant application from at least 60 days to 45 days; Exempts a grantee from the requirement to complete an approved project in 2 years or less if the grantee demonstrates to the board that the project is delayed due to a relevant disruption in the supply chain; Requires the board to apply the updated requirements to previously denied applications that sought grant awards under the federal act; and Establishes a process and remedies for appeals of a board decision regarding a grant application.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

Votes