American Rescue Plan Act - State Fiscal Recovery Funds
On May 13, 2022, Governor Henry McMaster signed H.4408, which includes an allocation of $400 million to the Office of Regulatory Staff -- South Carolina Broadband Office for the purpose of deploying broadband infrastructure. All American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds must be awarded through competitive grant processes.
Last Mile Grant Program
The Broadband Office has approximately $1 million in CARES II (state funds) available for disbursement to South Carolina Internet Service Providers (ISPs). The Last Mile Grant Program application will open the week of April 18, 2022.
Rural Broadband Grant Program
The Joint Bond Review Committee approved the allocation of $30,000,000 for the Rural Broadband Grant Program to be developed and implemented by the ORS, in coordination with the South Carolina Department of Commerce (SCDOC), to expand broadband availability and access in South Carolina.
Santee Cooper
Santee Cooper is accepting applications from broadband providers interested in accessing excess fiber and transmission infrastructure. Santee Cooper is not a provider of broadband, but instead will allow providers access to its 1,200 miles of excess fiber and transmission poles on the nearly statewide system to enable a faster and less expensive expansion into unserved areas.
Fiscal Year 21-22 Appropriations Act
The Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Appropriations Act allows for broadband infrastructure projects, including those that were approved for funding pursuant to Act 142 of 2020, but not constructed by December of 2020, to be completed through the Broadband Infrastructure Program.
CARES Act
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress to help provide relief to the United States economy from the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act provided additional funding for broadband infrastructure deployment to enhance distance learning, telehealth services, and other needs.