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HB 382

Commercial Law - Broadband Access - Low-Income Consumer Programs (Maryland Broadband Opportunity and Fairness Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 25 co-sponsors

Maryland bill establishing low-income broadband access programs through commercial law requirements, addressing digital divide and market gaps in underserved communities.

Third Reading Passed (95-34)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 382

Legislative bill overview

HB 382, the Maryland Broadband Opportunity and Fairness Act, establishes programs to expand broadband access for low-income consumers in Maryland through commercial law provisions. The bill appears designed to address the digital divide by creating requirements or incentives for broadband service providers to offer affordable access to disadvantaged populations. Specific mechanisms likely include affordability requirements, subsidy programs, or provider obligations for service in underserved areas.

Why is this important

Broadband access has become essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic participation, yet significant gaps persist in low-income communities. An estimated millions of Marylanders lack adequate broadband, limiting economic opportunity and exacerbating inequality. This legislation directly addresses a documented market failure where private providers have little financial incentive to serve unprofitable low-income areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to providers vs. consumer benefit: Broadband companies may resist mandates they claim increase costs, potentially passed to other consumers, while advocates argue providers already operate with healthy margins
  • Implementation feasibility: Questions about whether commercial law mechanisms effectively enforce affordability or if regulatory oversight and enforcement resources are adequate
  • Scope and definition disputes: Disagreement over what constitutes "affordable" broadband, which speed/data thresholds qualify, and whether subsidies should target individuals or infrastructure investment in underserved areas

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

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