Sec. 1. 27 MRSA §40 is enacted to read:

§40.__Accessible electronic information services

1.__Definitions.__As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

A. "Accessible electronic information service" means news and other information, including but not limited to newspapers, provided to eligible individuals from__a multistate service center using high-speed computers and telecommunications technology for interstate acquisition of content and rapid distribution in a form appropriate for use by such individuals.

B. "Blind and disabled persons" means individuals who are eligible for library loan services through the Library of Congress and the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped pursuant to 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 701.10(b).

C. "Qualified entity" means an agency, instrumentality or political subdivision of the State or a nonprofit organization that:

(1)__Provides interstate access for eligible persons to read daily newspapers through producing audio or Braille editions by computer;

(2)__Obtains electronic news text either over the Internet or through direct transfer arrangements made with participating news organizations; and

(3)__Provides a means of program administration and reader registration on the Internet.

2.__Provision of service. The State Librarian shall enter into an agreement with a qualified entity to provide an accessible electronic information service for eligible blind and disabled persons.__The State Librarian shall make maximum use of federal and other funds available by obtaining grants or in-kind support from appropriate programs and, if necessary, securing access to low-cost interstate rates for telecommunications by reimbursement or other means.