Bill > H75

This bill creates the Massachusetts Digital Equity Broadband Adoption Program within the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development. The purpose of the program is to expand the availability of broadband internet connectivity throughout the Commonwealth by providing financial assistance to eligible residents who cannot afford any available service. The bill defines "broadband service" and "provider" for the purposes of the program. It requires the office to enter into agreements with providers to accept vouchers as payment, and to coordinate with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide information about the program to families with students in grades K-12. Eligible individuals, such as those receiving TANF, SNAP, or Medicaid benefits, or with children eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, can apply for financial assistance in the form of vouchers worth $50 each to cover installation, activation, equipment, or monthly subscription fees. The bill also establishes a Broadband Adoption Digital Equity Fund to support the program, funded in part by an assessment on broadband providers.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H75