In today’s connected world, the societal importance and economic relevance of broadband is increasingly clear. Recognizing the need to provide all Virginians with broadband access, the Broadband Advisory Council (“the Council") was established pursuant to Va. Code § 2.2-100, within the executive branch of the Commonwealth. The Council’s purpose is to advise the Governor on policy and funding priorities in order to expedite deployment and reduce the cost of broadband access in the Commonwealth. The Council was established due to a recommendation by the Broadband Roundtable, established by Governor Kaine in 2007, and was codified during the 2009 legislative session (Chapter 818, 2009 Acts of Assembly).

This overview will provide an outline of the Council’s duties, Council membership, broadband legislation passed, and a summary of the Broadband Advisory Council meetings between October 1, 2019 and September 30, 2020.