COUNTY/MUNI-BROADBAND PROJECTS Senate SponsorsSen. Donald P. DeWitte 1/7/2025SenateSession Sine Die 55 ILCS 5/5-1188 new65 ILCS 5/11-117-15 new220 ILCS 5/13-202from Ch. 111 2/3, par. 13-202Amends the Counties Code and the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that a county or municipality may undertake local broadband projects and the provision of services in connection with local broadband projects, may lease infrastructure that it owns or controls relating to local broadband projects or services, may aggregate customers or demand for broadband services, and may apply for and receive funds or technical assistance to undertake local broadband projects to address the level of broadband access available to its businesses and residents. Provides that, to the extent that it seeks to serve as a retail provider of telecommunications services, the county or municipality must obtain appropriate certification from the Illinois Commerce Commission as a telecommunications carrier. Provides that certification of a county or municipality serving as a retail provider of telecommunication services is an exclusive power and function of the State. Amends the Public Utilities Act to make a conforming change. 8/16/2023SenateFiled with Secretary by Sen. Donald P. DeWitte 8/16/2023SenateFirst Reading 8/16/2023SenateReferred to Assignments 1/7/2025SenateSession Sine Die