NC S523

Establishes the North Carolina Broadband Assistance Program administered by the Department of Commerce to provide broadband subsidies to eligible low-income families.

Provides free broadband service to families with annual household income at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.

Provides a monthly credit of at least $15.00 for broadband service to families with income between 100% and 135% of the federal poverty level who participate in qualifying assistance programs (SNAP, SSI, veterans benefits, public housing assistance, school lunch program, or medical assistance).

Requires applicants to demonstrate income qualifications at least annually and directs the Department to submit quarterly reports to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Agriculture and Natural and Economic Resources beginning October 1, 2021.

Appropriates $250,000,000 in nonrecurring funds from the General Fund for the 2021-2022 fiscal year, with the act effective July 1, 2021.