CO HB1116

Authorizes the Colorado Broadband Deployment Board to apply for federal funding for broadband deployment projects and programs.

Requires a third-party contractor to maintain any awarded federal broadband money in a separate account dedicated to allocating federal broadband deployment funds, with the commission authorized to disburse as directed by the board.

Directs the board to immediately petition the FCC for a waiver from Connect America Fund Phase II auction rules to allow the board itself to allocate auction money for approved broadband deployment projects, following New York's petition model that was granted on January 26, 2017.

Allows the board to file additional FCC documentation and coordinate with the FCC to develop conditions for granting the petition, and permits the commission to establish rules complying with any FCC conditions imposed on eligible projects.

Declares the act necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.