AR SB449

Creates the Arkansas Broadband Advisory Council consisting of 16 members: 12 appointed by the Governor (including representatives from Farm Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, banking, healthcare, education, libraries, counties, municipalities, law enforcement/emergency management, Heartland Forward, and 2 private citizens) plus 4 ex-officio members from state workforce and education agencies, all serving 5-year terms.

Prohibits council members and their spouses from being representatives of, having financial interest in, or being employed by internet service providers to ensure independent advisory capacity.

Council members serve without compensation but may receive reimbursement for expenses through the Department of Commerce; council meets at least quarterly at the Arkansas State Broadband Office.

Council shall research and assess broadband needs, barriers, digital literacy, availability for underserved populations, technology advances, and conduct a study on mobile wireless technology to supplement broadband deployment within 6 months.

Council advises the State Broadband Manager on grant decisions and policy matters, files annual reports to the Governor and legislature by December 1, and expires December 31, 2028; emergency clause allows immediate effectiveness based on federal broadband funding timelines.