HI SB850

Establishes a broadband access equity task force jointly convened by the Department of Transportation and Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to expand digital inclusion and adoption in rural, unserved, and underserved communities.

Requires the task force to apply for all available federal funding sources for broadband infrastructure and ensure CARES Act and Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 funds are used primarily for broadband grants in historically marginalized communities.

Task force membership includes the directors of Transportation and DBEDT as co-chairs, the Commerce and Consumer Affairs director, the four county mayors, four representatives from government entities, and four representatives from private sector technology and telecommunications industries.

Requires a joint report to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2022 regular session detailing federal funds applied for, funds obtained under CARES Act and Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020, and all grant amounts dispersed for broadband expansion.

Task force ceases to exist on June 30, 2023, with the bill taking effect on July 1, 2050.