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In a landmark decision, the Maine Legislature has passed a new communications law aimed at ensuring equal access to the internet for all residents of the state. The law, which was approved by a bipartisan majority, seeks to address concerns around net neutrality and broadband access in rural and underserved communities.The new law, titled the Maine Internet Equality Act, prohibits internet service providers from blocking or throttling lawful content, applications, and services. It also prohibits them from engaging in paid prioritization, ensuring that all online content is treated equally. These provisions are designed to uphold the principles of net neutrality and prevent ISPs from giving preferential treatment to certain websites or services.In addition to protecting net neutrality, the Maine Internet Equality Act also includes measures to expand broadband access in rural and underserved areas. The law establishes a fund to support the deployment of high-speed internet infrastructure in these regions, with a focus on increasing access for low-income households and communities of color.Governor Janet Mills, who championed the legislation, praised the new law as a significant step towards closing the digital divide in Maine. "Access to the internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity in today's digital age," said Governor Mills. "This law will ensure that all Mainers have equal access to the online resources and opportunities they need to thrive."The Maine Internet Equality Act has been met with widespread support from consumer advocacy groups and tech companies alike. The ACLU of Maine called the law a "victory for internet freedom," while major tech companies such as Google and Facebook have voiced their support for the legislation.The passage of the Maine Internet Equality Act comes at a time when concerns around internet access and privacy are at an all-time high. With this new law in place, Maine residents can rest assured that their online experiences will be fair and equitable, regardless of where they live or how much money they make.