NC S558

Establishes the North Carolina Broadband Assistance Program administered by the Department of Commerce to provide broadband service affordability to 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 have at least one member participating in programs including SNAP, SSI, Veterans Benefits, Public Housing Assistance, National School Lunch Program, or Medical Assistance.

Requires annual income verification by applicants and allows the Department to terminate eligibility if accounts are more than 45 days past due.

Appropriates $250,000,000 in nonrecurring General Fund money for the 2023-2024 fiscal year and requires quarterly reports to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Agriculture and Natural and Economic Resources beginning October 1, 2023.