An Act To Increase Broadband Access for Rural Communities
CONCEPT DRAFT SUMMARY
This bill is a concept draft pursuant to Joint Rule 208.
This bill proposes to enact measures designed to increase broadband access for rural communities. Specifically, this bill proposes to:
1. Direct the ConnectME Authority to create an accurate map of broadband coverage in the State. The mapping project should delineate, at a minimum:
2. Direct the ConnectME Authority to provide funding for the provision of digital literacy programs, particularly in rural areas of the State. A digital literacy program funded pursuant to this requirement must have a history of success in increasing fluency in the use and security of interactive digital tools and searchable networks, including the ability to use digital tools safely and effectively for learning, collaborating and producing.