SB2290 Summary

• Establishes the Illinois Broadband Adoption Fund administered by the Department of Human Services to provide financial assistance for broadband Internet service to eligible residents through vouchers up to $50 each.

• Targets financial assistance to residents receiving TANF, SNAP, Medicaid benefits, or whose household includes a child eligible for free or reduced-price lunch.

• Vouchers can cover installation fees, equipment purchases, monthly subscription fees, and overdue amounts owed to broadband Internet providers.

• Creates the Illinois Innovation Voucher Program under the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to award matching funds up to 75% of research costs (not exceeding $75,000) for Illinois businesses collaborating with in-state nonprofit institutions of higher education.

• Innovation voucher program targets small and mid-sized businesses in key industries including agribusiness, energy, information technology, life sciences, manufacturing, and transportation logistics across urban, suburban, and rural areas.