HB1997

Mississippi HB1997 appropriates funds to establish a Rural Broadband Pilot Grant Program for small towns and municipalities.

Mississippi HB1997 allocates funds to the Mississippi Development Authority to create a Rural Broadband Pilot Grant Program. This program aims to support small towns and municipalities with broadband service implementation costs. Eligible entities must have populations under 10,000, demonstrate a lack of adequate broadband service, and provide a local match. The Mississippi Development Authority will coordinate with federal broadband funding to avoid duplication. Funds can be used for broadband infrastructure, engineering, make-ready costs, equipment, and other related expenses.