The Maine Legislature is considering an investment of $15 million in broadband internet in underserved parts of the state.
The proposal from Democratic Sen. Erin Herbig of Belfast would provide the money for broadband infrastructure to the state's ConnectME Authority. Herbig compared high-speed internet to other critical pieces of infrastructure such as electricity or roads. She said lack of access to broadband hurts education, economic development and telemedicine in rural parts of the state.
Census data show Maine is last in New England for access to high-speed internet.