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Bill

HD 2927

An Act relative to a local option for municipalities to own and operate their own internet provider

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Erika Uyterhoeven

Allows Massachusetts towns to build and operate their own broadband networks as a locally-controlled alternative to private internet service providers.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2927

Legislative bill overview

HD 2927 would allow Massachusetts municipalities to establish and operate their own broadband internet service provider as a local option. This represents a departure from the current model where internet service is primarily delivered by private companies, giving towns the authority to build and manage municipal broadband networks.

Why is this important

Broadband access significantly affects economic opportunity, education, and healthcare quality. Some rural and underserved areas have limited competitive options or poor service quality from existing providers, and municipal ownership could address these gaps. The bill reflects growing national debate over whether local government should be an alternative to private market solutions for essential digital infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Financial risk and expertise: Municipalities may lack technical expertise and experience to operate complex telecom infrastructure, potentially leading to cost overruns, service failures, or financial losses paid by taxpayers
  • Competition concerns: Private ISPs may argue this creates unfair government competition, potentially reducing their service areas and profitability
  • Regulatory complexity: The bill would need to address licensing, federal regulations, network standards, and liability issues that private companies currently manage
  • Unequal outcomes: Some municipalities may successfully operate broadband while others struggle, creating inconsistent service quality across the state
  • Market viability: Questions about whether municipal models are economically sustainable long-term or require continuous taxpayer subsidies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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