IL SB3629

Amends the High Speed Internet Services and Information Technology Act to establish a grant program through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for broadband infrastructure construction in underserved areas.

Authorizes grants to private businesses, units of local government, nonprofit organizations, or combinations thereof, with awards limited to 15% of total project cost and distributed on a competitive basis.

Establishes eight evaluation criteria for grant awards including relative need for broadband service, percentage of homes and businesses served, geographic diversity, economic impact, applicant budget and local match, financial and technical capacity, business sustainability plan, and (for local governments) evidence of contact with existing internet service providers.

Defines key terms including "applicant," "broadband connection," "private business," and "underserved area" with reference to the Public Utilities Act.

Repeals Sections 15 and 20 of the existing Act and removes provisions regarding a nonprofit organization's duties related to broadband provider information collection.