MO HB898

Creates the "Council on Digital Inclusion" composed of eight members appointed by the governor with senate consent, representing community technology organizations, telecommunications providers, higher education, elementary and secondary education, public health, public housing, local government entities, and the office of administration.

Council members serve three-year terms with staggered appointments, may be reappointed, receive no compensation but are reimbursed for expenses, and must meet at least four times per year.

Council shall advise the office of administration on broadband deployment and digital inclusion, and make recommendations to ensure equitable digital access for all state citizens and schools.

Council must review and catalog federal, local, and private grant programs and digital literacy initiatives available for broadband deployment and digital inclusion, updating the information regularly.

Council shall analyze public-private partnerships and philanthropic support for sustainable digital infrastructure, plan for long-term technological sustainability to meet economic and educational goals, and present compiled information to the office of administration.