1. (1) Based upon the needs and assessment inventory and the evidence received during the public hearing conducted pursuant to section 39-32-103, the public utilities commission may designate rural areas in the state as rural technology enterprise zones. In designating such zones, the commission shall specify by rule, based upon the needs and assessment inventory and the evidence received at the public hearing, the specific technology infrastructure needs of each rural technology enterprise zone and the types of investments that will meet those needs. For each rural technology enterprise zone designated pursuant to this section, the commission shall further specify the following:

   1. (a) The boundaries of the rural technology enterprise zone;
   2. (b) The potential for increasing internet access within the rural technology enterprise zone;
   3. (c) The specific technology infrastructure required to provide adequate internet access within the zone and any unique needs or characteristics of the zone;
   4. (d) The specific investments in technology infrastructure that will qualify for income tax credits in the zone pursuant to section 39-32-105; and
   5. (e) Any other information the commission deems pertinent.

Source: L. 98: Entire article added, p. 696, § 1, effective May 18.