New Hampshire Senate’s Expanded Broadband Legislation Moves Forward
Contact Name: Sara Persechino
Phone: (603) 271-3479
Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us
CONCORD - Today, the New Hampshire House of Representatives voted to concur with the Senate recommendation of Ought to Pass as Amended on HB 1111, a bill to expand broadband access across the state. HB 1111 unanimously passed the Senate on a voice vote earlier this month; it will next be enrolled with the Secretary of State’s office and then go to the governor’s desk for his action at which time he will have five days to act.
After the vote, HB 1111 amendment cosponsors Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene) and Senator Jeanne Dietsch (D-Peterborough) issued the following statements:
“The need to create digital equity across New Hampshire has been exponentially amplified throughout the coronavirus pandemic,” stated Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene). “Particularly in our rural communities, expanded broadband means access to telemedicine and telehealth, the ability to work from home, and continued educational access for our students. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we invest in creating public-private partnerships to bring high speed internet service to every home in New Hampshire and finally cover the last mile.”
Senator Jeanne Dietsch (D-Peterborough) added, “Giving our rural communities the ability to combine into communications districts and providing access to service provider mapping to determine unserved properties is good for everyone. Access to consistent high speed internet service improves property values and increases viable housing stock, stabilizing the cost of living across the state. HB 1111 gives our towns the tools they need to move our economy forward--I implore Governor Sununu to sign this bipartisan bill.”
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