Governor Cuomo says a big lesson of the pandemic is that people in the state still need broadband.
He has signed a new law ordering internet providers to offer an affordable service to low-income people. The service will cost $15 a month.
For some of the neediest households and students, a foundation grant will provide free access during this period of remote learning.
The bill also sets up a study on how to extend broadband to rural areas where it is not available.
Cuomo says the past year of remote learning and telehealth has exposed injustices and inequality that are leaving some people behind.