123rd MAINE LEGISLATURE
LD      LR 3497(01)
An Act To Extend the ConnectME Authority
Fiscal Note for Original Bill
Committee: Utilities and Energy
Fiscal Note Required: Yes
             
Fiscal Note
2007-08 2008-09 Projections 2009-10 Projections 2010-11
Net Cost (Savings)
General Fund $0 $0 $474,000 $474,000
Revenue
General Fund $0 $0 ($474,000) ($474,000)
Other Special Revenue Funds $0 $0 ($26,000) ($26,000)
Fiscal Detail and Notes
The ConnectME Authority was established pursuant to 2005 PL, Chapter 665 to advance broadband availability and wireless service coverage in unserved and undeserved areas.  This Authority is funded by an assessment on communications service providers.  The assessment generates approximately $800,000 per year and the ConnectME Fund is administered by an independent fiscal agent.  Repealing the sunset date in 35-A MRSA section 9215 will allow the authority to continue to operate beyond January 31, 2009.
The General Fund revenue loss associated with the sales and use tax reimbursement for certain equipment is $474,000 annually beginning in fiscal year 2009-10.