(a) It is the finding of the Legislature that:
- (1) West Virginia’s cities, towns, and other concentrated population areas, areas of the state, mostly rural, remain unserved or underserved by broadband access; and
- (2) The lack of affordable, accessible broadband service in the underserved and unserved areas in this state necessitates consideration of alternative means and methods of providing internet services.
- (b) It is the purpose of this article that individuals and businesses be able to form cooperative associations for the purpose of obtaining internet services within their respective regions and communities.