Special Authority to Enable Funding of Broadband and Smart Utility Facilities Across Select Rural Development Programs

OMB Docket No. XXXX-New

7 CFR Part 1980

Special Authority to Enable Funding of Broadband and Smart Utility Facilities Across Select Rural Development Programs (Smart Utility)

The burden accounted for under this information collection package is a non-form.

Public Notice requirements -- Applicants seeking funding to finance retail broadband projects under Smart Utility authority which include activities where assistance may be provided under section 601 of the Rural Electrification Act 1936 are generally expected to comply with the rules related to broadband funding under Title VI of the Rural Electrification Act. To be considered for funding under smart utility authority, applicants must provide in writing the following information:

1. a description of the proposed retail broadband project

2. a map of the proposed service area to be funded under smart utility authority of the applicant;

3. the amount and type of support requested by the applicant;

4. the estimated number and proportion of service points in the proposed service territory without fixed broadband service, whether terrestrial or wireless; and

5. any other information required of the applicant in a funding notice.

6. any other information required of similar applicants under Title VI of the Rural Electrification Act.