New Hampshire Senate’s Expanded Broadband Legislation Sent to Governor
Contact Name: Sara Persechino
Phone: (603) 271-3479
Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us
CONCORD - Today, HB 1111, a bill championed by Senate Democrats to expand broadband access across the state, was delivered to the Secretary of State. It next goes to the governor’s desk where he will have five business days to sign, veto, or allow the bill to become law without his signature.
Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene) and Senator Jeanne Dietsch (D-Peterborough) issued the following statements in response:
“Expanded broadband is a matter of equity,” stated Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene). “As our offices, schools, and health care have moved online in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the inequities experienced by communities without consistent access to high-speed internet have only grown. Public funds must be used efficiently in creating public-private partnerships to bring high speed internet service to every home in New Hampshire. That is why Senate Democrats have continued to push expanded broadband access to every door in New Hampshire, the last mile.”
Senator Jeanne Dietsch (D-Peterborough) added, “Giving rural communities the necessary tools to combine into communications districts is good for everyone. Without broadband access, as much as 15% of New Hampshire housing is not viable for most families and workers. By connecting those homes, we will make living and working in New Hampshire more affordable by increasing the housing stock. HB 1111 provides our rural communities with the flexibility to expand broadband and in turn, move our state’s economy forward. This legislation unanimously passed the Senate and was concurred by the House on a voice vote, I urge the governor to join the Legislature in supporting HB 1111.”
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