South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff

The council reviewed significant investments in broadband infrastructure from 2020 through 2024, noting that a large portion of ARPA and CPF projects are complete. Discussions covered the status of managed grants, statistics on fiber deployment methods and miles, and outreach efforts regarding new underground facility damage prevention laws. The council also examined the status of BEAD funding and remaining serviceable locations in South Carolina compared to other southeastern states, alongside technological considerations and performance benchmarks indicating strong rural broadband access in the state.

The meeting provided a historical overview of the Broadband Advisory Council and an update on the progress of broadband infrastructure funding in South Carolina. Key discussion topics included the transition from ARPA to the BEAD program, the status of fiber optic deployment, compliance with underground facility damage prevention laws, and the remaining broadband service locations statewide. Additionally, the council addressed potential future funding, including the status of non-deployment funds, and discussed potential collaborations on future initiatives such as digital navigator programs and AI centers of excellence.

The Broadband Advisory Council meeting for the second quarter of 2024 included updates on infrastructure investments and digital opportunity initiatives. The meeting highlighted a shift in focus towards digital opportunities, emphasizing the importance of skills and affordability alongside infrastructure. Discussions covered the team's achievements, financial aspects, and strategic efforts, including the completion of capital projects fund investments and the accelerated deployment Grant. Priority areas for broadband deployment were discussed, focusing on K12 student households and difficult development areas.

The Digital Opportunity Plan for South Carolina focuses on bridging the digital divide by enhancing broadband adoption and use, creating opportunities for covered populations, and aligning with existing efforts to improve outcomes. Key goals include broadband availability and affordability, online access, digital literacy, online privacy and cybersecurity, and device availability and affordability. The plan aims to ensure all South Carolinians have access to affordable, reliable, high-speed internet and the necessary skills to benefit from this technology, fostering economic, health, and civic opportunities.

The Broadband Advisory Council (BBAC) meeting covered various topics, including group updates on broadband-related work in South Carolina. Discussions included updates on CARES II grants, the Rural Broadband Grant Program, and upcoming federal funding sources. The Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) presented an overview of the state of broadband in South Carolina and discussed the development of a comprehensive broadband plan. The relaunch of SC Digital Drive was also highlighted, along with a request for BBAC members to review the site and provide feedback. Finally, potential legislation related to broadband adoption and use was discussed, focusing on broadband access and digital equity.