Maine has a historic opportunity before us to expand access to reliable, high-speed internet to everyone in the state, no matter where they live or their circumstances.
However, access depends on more than power lines, utility poles, and other infrastructure. It also depends on the affordability of internet service and whether all Maine people have the tools and skills to use it.
We are proud that Maine is the first state to have a digital equity plan approved by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. This approval will help Mainers get online, including Maine’s seniors, veterans, low-income families, tribal communities, people living in rural areas, and others who face more barriers. This is the first step toward freeing up federal funds to help.
This plan was developed after intensive collaboration with stakeholders, partner organizations, and public participation, including a statewide survey. Through its research, the Maine Connection Bureau found that 47% of Maine residents say they have difficulty paying for internet service. We also found that 93% of Maine residents are concerned about internet safety, especially for seniors and children, and many lack the technical skills needed to take advantage of technology. In every focus group, people struggle to name the resources they rely on to stay safe online, and most people rely on family members for tech support if they run into problems with their devices.
AARP Maine, on behalf of the state’s 200,000 members, applauds the approval of Maine’s plan to expand high-speed internet access and penetration across the Pine Tree State. High-speed internet is not a luxury. A must have for older main people. Increased connectivity will enable more seniors to access online government services, participate in virtual health services, find and maintain employment, meet daily needs, and stay socially connected. This means improving quality of life and allowing seniors to age safely.
This plan is a blueprint for closing Maine’s digital divide. Several important strategies have been identified to reduce barriers to Internet access.
The Maine Connectivity Authority continues to improve access to broadband through grants to local and regional projects. Officials will also focus on affordability, ensuring Maine has budget-friendly connectivity options.
The plan calls for making Internet-enabled devices affordable through public-private partnerships, as well as providing technical training to help individuals use the devices safely, securely, and confidently. Additionally, the plan places renewed emphasis on making government resources and programs available online.
Finally, the plan calls for the creation of the Maine Digital Equity Fund, which would combine private philanthropic support with federal funding to help achieve the goal of fully connecting Maine people. .
While putting together this comprehensive plan is a commendable start, there is much work ahead of us. AARP Maine looks forward to working with the Maine Connectivity Authority and other key stakeholders to make this plan a success.
We must continue to focus on making internet service affordable and accessible no matter where you live. As Maine’s plan shows, wires alone won’t solve connectivity problems. That’s why AARP remains committed to continuing the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides direct support to help Maine people access internet service.
Currently, eligible households can receive anywhere from $30 to $75 a month off their high-quality internet bill. For many families, this can cover the entire cost of services.
However, the program is at risk of running out of funding in April. We hope Congress will preserve this important program as Maine works with local and tribal partners to close the digital divide. Older Mainers expect immediate action.
Related article
Invalid username/password.
Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration.
Please use the form below to reset your password. Once you submit your account email, you will receive an email with a reset code.