Wisconsin Senate Bill SB325

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/7/23
• Refer: 6/7/23
• Report Pass: 10/6/23
• Engrossed: 10/17/23
• Enrolled: 10/19/23
• Chaptered: 12/7/23
• Passed: 12/7/23

Caption

The broadband expansion grant program. (FE)

Impact

The reformation of the broadband grant program highlights a commitment to federal initiatives, such as participation in the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program. The bill introduces a procedure for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to challenge grant applications if they can commit to providing necessary broadband speeds within designated areas. This mechanism aims to streamline grant distribution while incentivizing ISPs to enhance their service commitments in qualifying regions.

Summary

Senate Bill 325 focuses on enhancing the broadband expansion grant program in Wisconsin, aiming to improve internet access in underserved and unserved areas. The bill specifically redefines criteria for what constitutes an 'unserved area', requiring a baseline of at least 100 megabits per second download and 20 megabits per second upload speeds for areas to be classified as served. This change reflects a push to significantly raise the minimum speed expectations for broadband access.

Contention

The bill's notable points of contention revolve around the definitions of service areas and eligibility for funding. By prioritizing projects that have a higher percentage of matching funds and emphasizing infrastructure that is both scalable and capable of exceeding minimum speed thresholds, there are concerns from some stakeholders about the feasibility of meeting these conditions. Critics argue that such stringent criteria may limit access to funding for smaller or rural areas that struggle to meet the financial backing required for match funding.