CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – New Hampshire is taking steps to come up with a plan to expand broadband computer access in the state.

The state has requested proposals and hopes to have a broadband consultant at work by the end of the year.

Sen. Deborah Reynolds of Plymouth says the government lists New Hampshire as last in the nation in the percentage of residential telephone customers who have access to high speed Internet services. She says that must change because access to faster Internet service boosts economic development. She wants the state to make expanding broadband access a priority.