AR HB1788

Creates broadband improvement districts by adding Chapter 96 to Arkansas Code Title 14, establishing a framework for public-private partnerships to develop and maintain broadband internet service.

Allows six types of local government entities (municipal improvement districts, suburban improvement districts, property owners' improvement districts, municipal property owners' improvement districts, horizontal property regimes, and rural development authorities) to enter partnerships with private actors to finance and provide broadband internet service.

Requires private actors in broadband improvement district agreements to construct, finance, implement, maintain, and operate broadband systems and provide high-speed, high-capacity internet service.

Permits existing districts formed on or after January 1, 2021, to conduct broadband improvement activities using their existing notice and voting procedures rather than requiring new procedures.

Allows districts to receive federal, state, county, or municipal funding through grants, transfers, appropriations, and other legal payment forms to accomplish broadband improvement purposes.