HD 1708 requires state and local governments to streamline broadband infrastructure permitting, mandating decisions within 30-45 days and cost-based fees for access to poles and conduits. It prioritizes "open access" networks - where multiple providers share physical infrastructure - to reduce costs and improve equity, requiring all state-funded broadband projects to adopt this model. The bill also enforces a "Dig Once" policy for new construction (including empty conduits) and "One-Touch Make-Ready" for pole work to accelerate deployment. These provisions apply to all broadband providers, infrastructure owners (like municipalities and utilities), and state agencies, with the Department of Telecommunications and Cable enforcing compliance through fines up to $25,000 per day for violations.
This bill requires all public housing units in the Commonwealth to provide free broadband internet access to residents, establishing it as a standard feature of "decent, safe and sanitary dwellings" under housing law. It mandates the state department to study broadband's connection to public health, particularly in underserved communities. Housing authorities will receive state funding (appropriated by the General Court) to implement and maintain this free service, with broadband explicitly excluded from being classified as a utility. The policy directly affects public housing residents and housing authorities responsible for compliance.
This bill expands telehealth coverage and digital access for Massachusetts residents. It requires health insurers to cover virtual visits, digital consultations, remote patient monitoring, and related devices at the same rate as in-person care. The bill also creates a shared application portal for affordable broadband programs and mandates insurers to provide interpreter services and digital literacy support for patients with limited English proficiency or low tech skills. These provisions directly affect patients, healthcare providers, and insurers across Massachusetts.
This bill establishes a low-income senior internet subsidy program to help older adults access affordable internet. It provides eligible seniors (aged 65+ with household income under 200% of the federal poverty level) with monthly subsidies of up to $50 for home internet services and partners with internet providers to offer discounted plans. Senior living facilities (like assisted living communities and nursing homes) can receive grants to install and maintain free public Wi-Fi hotspots, prioritizing areas with limited digital infrastructure or high concentrations of low-income residents. The program requires annual reporting on implementation, participants, and impact to ensure effectiveness and guide future funding.
By Representative Robertson of Tewksbury, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 95) of David Allen Robertson relative to the awarding of money to municipal agencies for the purpose of expanding, founding, advertising or maintaining of publicly-administered broadband internet service providers. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
By Representative González of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 79) of Carlos González relative to access to the affordable connectivity program. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
By Representative Robertson of Tewksbury, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 95) of David Allen Robertson relative to the awarding of money to municipal agencies for the purpose of expanding, founding, advertising or maintaining of publicly-administered broadband internet service providers. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2285) of Adam Gomez for legislation to establish standards for the pole attachment process to facilitate the construction of broadband networks. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Payano, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2318) of Pavel M. Payano, Jason M. Lewis, Joanne M. Comerford and Michael O. Moore for legislation to preserve broadband service for low-income consumers. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Representative Hong of Lowell, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3506) of Tara T. Hong and others for legislation to establish a low-income senior internet subsidy program to provide financial assistance to eligible seniors for internet services. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
