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In a landmark decision, New Hampshire legislators have passed a bill aimed at expanding broadband access to underserved communities across the state. The bill, which was approved by a bipartisan majority, seeks to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all residents have access to high-speed internet.The new law, which is set to take effect immediately, includes provisions for funding infrastructure projects, as well as providing subsidies for low-income households to access affordable internet services. Additionally, the bill mandates that internet service providers offer a minimum speed of 100 Mbps for all customers, with the goal of ensuring that rural areas have the same level of connectivity as urban centers.Governor Margaret Davis, who championed the bill, praised the legislation as a crucial step towards creating a more equitable and connected society. "Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for economic, educational, and social participation," she stated. "This bill will help level the playing field for all residents of New Hampshire."The passage of this bill comes at a time when the importance of reliable internet access has been underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic. With remote work and online learning becoming the new norm, many residents in rural areas have struggled to keep up due to the lack of reliable internet infrastructure.Supporters of the bill argue that expanding broadband access will not only boost economic development in underserved communities but also improve overall quality of life for residents. They believe that access to high-speed internet is essential for telemedicine, online education, e-commerce, and social connectivity.However, critics of the bill have raised concerns about the cost of implementing the new requirements, as well as the potential for government overreach in regulating internet service providers. Some opponents argue that the market should dictate internet availability and pricing rather than government intervention.Despite these criticisms, the passage of the bill marks a significant victory for advocates of closing the digital divide in New Hampshire. With this new legislation in place, residents can look forward to a more connected and inclusive future where reliable internet access is a basic right for all.