Senate Bill 547: FIBER NC Act Summary

• Authorizes North Carolina counties and cities to build broadband service facilities and equipment for leasing to non-governmental entities to expand rural broadband access.

• Requires counties and cities to conduct feasibility studies, adopt resolutions with at least 10 days' public notice, notify the Local Government Commission for multi-year projects, and notify the State Chief Information Officer before beginning construction.

• Permits counties and cities to fund broadband infrastructure using ad valorem tax levies, grants, or unrestricted funds.

• Allows cities to lease broadband facilities for up to 25 years without treating the lease as a property sale, provided proposals are advertised at least 7 days prior with competitive bidding procedures.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2021, with specific provisions for tax-related sections effective for taxable years beginning on or after that date.