1. (1) The broadband center shall partner with the Utah Geospatial Resource Center created in Section 63A-16-505 to collect and maintain a database and interactive map that displays economic development data statewide, including:

   1. (a) voluntarily submitted broadband availability, speeds, and other broadband data;
   2. (b) voluntarily submitted public utility data;

   3. (c) workforce data, including information regarding:

      1. (i) enterprise zones designated under Section 63N-2-206;
      2. (ii) public institutions of higher education; and
      3. (iii) APEX accelerators;
   4. (d) transportation data, which may include information regarding railway routes, commuter rail routes, airport locations, and major highways;
   5. (e) lifestyle data, which may include information regarding state parks, national parks and monuments, United States Forest Service boundaries, ski areas, golf courses, and hospitals; and
   6. (f) other relevant economic development data as determined by the office, including data provided by partner organizations.

2. (2) The broadband center may:

   1. (a) make recommendations to state and federal agencies, local governments, the governor, and the Legislature regarding policies and initiatives that promote the development of broadband-related infrastructure in the state and help implement those policies and initiatives;
   2. (b) facilitate coordination between broadband providers and public and private entities;
   3. (c) collect and analyze data on broadband availability and usage in the state, including Internet speed, capacity, the number of unique visitors, and the availability of broadband infrastructure throughout the state;
   4. (d) create a voluntary broadband alliance, which shall include broadband providers and other public and private stakeholders, to solicit input on broadband-related policy guidance, best practices, and adoption strategies;
   5. (e) work with broadband providers, state and local governments, and other public and private stakeholders to facilitate and encourage the expansion and maintenance of broadband infrastructure throughout the state; and

   6. (f) in accordance with the requirements of Title 63J, Chapter 5, Federal Funds Procedures Act, and in accordance with federal requirements:

      1. (i) apply for federal grants;
      2. (ii) participate in federal programs; and
      3. (iii) administer federally funded broadband-related programs.

Renumbered and Amended by Chapter 512, 2025 General Session