Juneau, Alaska - In a groundbreaking move, Alaska Governor Sarah Anderson signed into law a bill on February 18, 2026, that requires internet service providers (ISPs) to offer free broadband access to low-income residents across the state. The new law aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Alaskans have equal access to the internet, which has become an essential tool for education, healthcare, and communication.Under the legislation, ISPs operating in Alaska must set aside a portion of their bandwidth for free use by households with incomes below the federal poverty line. The exact details of how this will be implemented are still being worked out, but advocates for the law are hopeful that it will provide much-needed internet access to those who have been left behind in the digital age.Governor Anderson praised the new law as a vital step towards a more equitable society. "In today's world, access to the internet is not a luxury but a necessity," she stated. "By ensuring that low-income residents have free broadband access, we are leveling the playing field and giving every Alaskan the opportunity to thrive in the digital economy."The law has received widespread support from both lawmakers and advocacy groups. State Senator John Smith, who co-sponsored the bill, noted that the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of internet access for remote work and online learning. "This law is a crucial investment in our state's future," he said. "It will empower low-income families to access the resources they need to succeed in today's fast-paced world."While some ISPs have expressed concerns about absorbing the costs of providing free broadband access, others have welcomed the new law as a chance to expand their customer base and make a positive impact on their communities. Time will tell how the law will be implemented and what impact it will have on Alaska's low-income residents, but for now, it stands as a significant step towards a more connected and equitable society in the Last Frontier.