Whereas, the Internet continues to grow and it is essential to ensure delivery of social and economic benefits to the State; and

Whereas, it is necessary to consider what type of statewide computing and communications investment strategy will stimulate public investment and create more opportunities and incentives for information technology business to locate in the State; and

Whereas, it is imperative to address how to develop and maintain a highly qualified information technology workforce to support business growth; and

Whereas, it is essential to create a business and regulatory policy that will ensure that Maine is an attractive location for information technology companies and their employees; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Commission established. Resolved: That the Blue Ribbon Commission to Establish a Comprehensive Internet Policy, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. 2. Commission membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of 12 members appointed as follows:

1. Five members from the information industry, appointed by the Governor;

2. Four Legislators from the Joint Standing Committee on Business and Economic Development, appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House;

3. One member from the University of Maine System, appointed by the Chancellor of the University of Maine System;

4. The Commissioner of Education or the commissioner's designee; and

5. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development or the commissioner's designee; and be it further