NC S551

Establishes the North Carolina Broadband Assistance Program through the Department of Commerce to provide broadband subsidies to families earning up to 135% of the federal poverty level

Families at or below 100% of the federal poverty level receive free broadband service; families between 100-135% who participate in programs like SNAP, SSI, or Medicaid receive at least $15/month credit

Recipients must verify income eligibility annually and may lose benefits if their broadband account is more than 45 days past due

Appropriates $250 million in nonrecurring General Fund money to the Department of Commerce for fiscal year 2025-2026

Requires quarterly reporting to the legislature beginning October 1, 2025, on applications, participation, outreach activities, and legislative recommendations