ACCESS TO BROADBAND SERVICES

Creates the Universal Access to Broadband Services Act. Contains provisions regarding access to publicly-held broadband infrastructure for local community broadband projects. Provides for the development of local community broadband projects. Provides guidelines for the future deployment of publicly-held infrastructure. Amends the Illinois Century Network Act. Provides that the Illinois Century Network shall be available for lease, on a non-discriminatory basis, to any public, private, or non-profit entity pursuant to the Universal Access to Broadband Services Act. Amends the Public Utilities Act. Requires the Illinois Commerce Commission to transfer to the Lieutenant Governor, and requires the Lieutenant Governor to receive, all funds possessed by the Commission related to the Digital Divide Elimination Infrastructure Program. Provides that the Lieutenant Governor shall be responsible for administration and disbursement of any remaining funds, previously administered by the Illinois Commerce Commission, for the Digital Divide Elimination Infrastructure Program. Provides that the Lieutenant Governor, through the Broadband Deployment Council established under Executive Order 2005-9, shall establish criteria for future grants from the Digital Divide Elimination Infrastructure Fund and shall provide for the competitive selection of recipients of grant funds available. Effective immediately.