CA SB156

Establishes the Office of Broadband and Digital Literacy within the Department of Technology to oversee development, construction, and operation of a statewide open-access middle-mile broadband network funded by $2 billion appropriated in the 2021 Budget Act.

Authorizes joint powers entities to issue revenue bonds for broadband infrastructure deployment, and allows counties, cities, and other local agencies to acquire, construct, and operate broadband infrastructure and internet access services.

Revises the California Advanced Services Fund program to extend the goal of approving funding for 98% household broadband access from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2026, and establishes new funding accounts including the Federal Funding Account and Broadband Public Housing Account.

Exempts linear broadband deployment projects in existing rights-of-way from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements if they meet specified conditions including location in areas identified by the Public Utilities Commission and incorporation of environmental impact measures.

Allocates $2 billion from the 2021 Budget Act for last-mile broadband infrastructure with $1 billion for urban counties and at least $1 billion for rural counties, with initial $5 million allocations per county and remaining funds distributed based on household broadband access needs.