Bill > LD657

This bill modifies the legal definition of "basic necessities" in municipal general assistance laws to explicitly include broadband Internet access service and wireless access point technology. Specifically, the bill amends existing statutes to add these technologies to the list of essential services that can be covered under municipal general assistance programs, alongside existing basic necessities like food, water, clothing, shelter, and utilities. The bill provides precise definitions for these new terms: "broadband Internet access service" is referenced as having the same meaning as defined in another part of Maine law, while "wireless access point technology" is defined as technology that enables wireless network connections for devices. The modification also makes a minor grammatical adjustment, changing "do" to "does" in the existing text. The purpose appears to be recognizing internet and wireless connectivity as increasingly essential services that can be crucial for medical, educational, and employment needs, especially for low-income individuals who may require municipal assistance.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=657&snum=132