NC H1949

Creates a 21-member Joint Broadband Task Force comprising 10 members appointed by the Speaker of the House, 10 by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and 1 elected member, plus nonvoting ex officio members including the State Chief Information Officer and Utilities Commission representative.

Charges the Task Force with examining last-mile broadband deployment issues, considering funding incentives and mechanisms, reviewing cost-effective solutions for underserved communities, and addressing other broadband-related matters in North Carolina.

Grants the Task Force authority to contract for consultant services, subpoena witnesses, and request information from state agencies and departments.

Appropriates $75,000 from the General Fund for fiscal year 2010-2011 to fund the Task Force's operations, with members receiving per diem, subsistence, and travel allowances as established by existing state law.

Requires the Task Force to report to the 2011 General Assembly and terminates upon filing its final report; effective July 1, 2010.