AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - A proposal to expand high-speed internet would allow a new Maine Connectivity Authority to own infrastructure such as poles and wires to help push broadband to all corners of the state.
The authority would be different than the current ConnectME Authority because of its ability to take an equity stake in projects. The bill is up for a public hearing on Tuesday.
Gov. Janet Mills said Monday it’s going to take “willpower” to ensure everyone has access to high-speed internet.
“High speed internet is as fundamental as electricity, heat and water. It is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity,” she said.
The bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Sen. Rick Bennett, R-Oxford, and Rep. Seth Berry, D-Bowdoinham, both of whom represent rural districts. Under the bill, the authority would be overseen by a board.
Bennett said the pandemic has underscored the importance of high-speed internet as more people work from home.
“Nobody will consider moving to a community without high-speed reliable internet. The very survival of many towns across our state is at stake with the decisions we make,” Bennett said.
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