Technology (Broadband Access)

By Representative Diggs of Barnstable, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3478) of Kip A. Diggs and Bud L. Williams relative to broadband permitting and access to infrastructure. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.

By Representative Diggs of Barnstable, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 75) of Kip A. Diggs and Hadley Luddy relative to broadband high-speed internet access. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.

H 4596 establishes a Massachusetts Digital Navigation Commission to study how to create a statewide credentialing program for digital navigators - trusted community guides who help residents access affordable internet, devices, and digital skills. The commission, made up of state agency representatives and community organizations, will examine funding models, qualifications for navigators, and how digital navigation services impact health and equity. It will also analyze existing regional initiatives and collect data to inform recommendations. The commission must submit a report with its findings and proposed legislation within six months, but the bill itself does not create the credentialing program or mandate changes.

By Representative Sena of Acton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 101) of Danillo A. Sena and others for an investigation by the Department of Public Health of broadband internet access and its relation to the public health objectives. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.

By Representative Moran of Lawrence, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 92) of Frank A. Moran relative to establishing within the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development a digital equity broadband adoption program. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.

By Representative Puppolo of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3546) of Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., for legislation to establish standards for the pole attachment process to facilitate the construction of broadband networks. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.