MML testified in support of both HB 43 and HB 97 in the House Economic Matters Committee last week, each of which creates a statewide office focused on increasing the deployment of broadband Internet throughout the State. While the bills are slightly different, they contain similar provisions generally promoting the expansion of access to broadband Internet in the State, with specific assistance to municipalities:
1. Development and deployment of digital literacy training.
2. Identification of specific areas of demand for Internet access.
3. Delivery of resources to local governments, such as grant funding application assistance.
4. Coordination among IT staff.
For more information, please contact Bill Jorch, billj@mdmunicipal.org