As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

1.__Advanced communications technology infrastructure. "Advanced communications technology infrastructure" means any communications technology infrastructure or infrastructure improvement that expands the deployment of, or improves the quality of, broadband availability and wireless service coverage.

2.__Authority.__"Authority" means the ConnectME Authority established in section 9203.

3.__Communications service.__"Communications service" means any wireline voice, satellite, data, fixed wireless data or video retail service.

4.__Communications service provider.__"Communications service provider" means:

A.__Any entity offering communications service to customers in the State; or

B.__Any facilities-based provider of wireless voice or data retail service that voluntarily chooses to be assessed by the authority pursuant to section 9211.

5.__Unserved or underserved area. "Unserved or underserved area" means an area that the authority pursuant to section 9204, subsection 2, paragraph B determines to meet criteria established by the authority by rule adopted pursuant to section 9205, subsection 3 in accordance with section 9204, subsection 1.

§9203.__ConnectME Authority

1.__Establishment; membership.__The ConnectME Authority is established to stimulate investment in advanced communications technology infrastructure in unserved or underserved areas.__The authority is created as a body corporate and politic and a public instrumentality of the State.__The exercise by the authority of powers conferred by this chapter is considered to be the performance of essential governmental functions. The authority consists of the following 5 voting members:

A. The chair of the Public Utilities Commission or the chair's designee;

B.__The Chief Information Officer of the State, or the officer's designee;