NC S572

Extends statewide the authority for counties to provide grants to private high-speed internet access providers for expanding service in unserved areas for economic development purposes.

Requires grants to be awarded on a technology-neutral basis, open to qualified applicants, and funded only with unrestricted general fund revenue.

Mandates counties seek and consider requests for proposals from qualified private providers within the county prior to awarding grants, using reasonable notice procedures including compliance with G.S. 160A-340.6(c).

Defines "qualified private provider" as a private provider of high-speed internet access service in North Carolina prior to the issuance of the grant proposal.

Exempts Nash County grant processes initiated before June 1, 2012 from these new statewide requirements.