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H 3506

An Act relative to digital inclusion for seniors

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Connolly and 8 co-sponsors

Provides up to $50/month subsidies for low-income seniors’ internet and funds free public Wi-Fi in senior facilities to boost digital inclusion.

Accompanied a study order, see H5323
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Bill Summary · H 3506

Summary: H.3506 An Act relative to digital inclusion for seniors

Overview

H.3506, titled “An Act relative to digital inclusion for seniors,” seeks to close the digital divide for Massachusetts seniors by creating a targeted subsidy program for internet access and by expanding free Wi‑Fi access in senior living facilities. The bill defines eligibility, outlines subsidy and infrastructure supports, and requires ongoing reporting to monitor impact and guide funding decisions. The act takes effect one year after passage, and the current reporting date has been extended to December 3, 2025.

Key Provisions

  • Definitions (Section 10, added to Chapter 25C):

    • Low-income seniors: individuals aged 65+ with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
    • Senior living facilities: facilities primarily serving seniors (e.g., assisted living, nursing homes).
    • The office: Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.
    • The program: the low-income senior internet subsidy program.
    • Wi‑Fi hotspot: public wireless internet access points.

  • Low-income senior internet subsidy program:

    • The department shall establish and administer the program.
    • Provides monthly subsidies of up to $50 to offset home internet costs.
    • Partners with internet service providers to offer discounted plans tailored to low-income seniors.

  • Grants to senior living facilities:

    • Subject to appropriation, the office may allocate grants for installation and maintenance of free public Wi‑Fi hotspots in senior facilities.
    • Priorities: facilities serving communities with limited digital infrastructure or with high concentrations of low-income residents.

  • Feedback and accountability:

    • The department shall collect public feedback from both senior living facilities and low-income seniors to improve program design and effectiveness.
    • An annual report must detail implementation, numbers served, facilities supported, requested funding for the next fiscal year, overall impact, and gathered feedback. Reports go to the governor and specified legislative chairs.

  • Implementation timeline:

    • Section 2 provides that the act takes effect one year after passage.

Who and What Is Affected

  • Eligible participants: seniors aged 65+ with household income ≤ 200% of the federal poverty level.
  • Geographic/institutional reach: senior living facilities across the Commonwealth.
  • Other stakeholders: internet service providers (ISPs) willing to offer discounted plans; facility staff and administrators; local communities with limited digital infrastructure.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025.
  • Status actions: Referred to the Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy; Senate concurred; hearing scheduled.
  • Hearing: April 30, 2025 (posted hearing for May 6, 2025, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM, in Room A-2).
  • Reporting date extension: The bill’s reporting date has been extended to Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
  • Effective date: One year after passage.

Related Language

  • Related bill: HD 381 (replaces the current filing).

Potential Impact

  • Direct financial relief for eligible seniors through up to $50/month toward home internet service.
  • Expanded access to affordable internet options via ISP partnerships.
  • Improved digital inclusion within senior living facilities through funded free Wi‑Fi hotspots.
  • Data-driven program evaluation through annual reporting and stakeholder feedback.

This summary focuses on the substantive provisions and how they would affect eligible seniors, senior facilities, and internet access in Massachusetts.

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

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