Governor Janet Mills unveiled new legislation on Monday that would expand broadband internet access in Maine.

At a press conference on Monday, Mills said her office was releasing the details of proposed legislation that would use as much as $129 million being provided through the American Rescue Act. It would seek to create the Maine Connectivity Authority, which was sponsored by Republican Senator Rick Bennett and co-sponsored by Democratic Representative Seth Berry.

Mills says the goal is to provide affordable and universally accessible broadband internet in Maine, and establish infrastructure than can meet future needs.

“High speed internet is as fundamental as electricity, heat, and water. It is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. We need to have affordable, high-speed internet throughout our state, and with willpower we will get there,” said Governor Mills.

Mills said the Authority would use Maine’s federal allocation for broadband funding, and it would be empowered to own physical infrastructure like poles and wires.