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SB 307

AN ACT PROHIBITING TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES FROM CHARGING CUSTOMERS TO RECEIVE PAPER BILLS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Sampson

Connecticut bill prohibits telecom companies from charging fees for paper bills, protecting access for customers preferring traditional billing methods.

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Bill Summary · SB 307

Legislative bill overview

SB 307 would prohibit telecommunications companies operating in Connecticut from charging customers fees to receive paper bills instead of electronic bills. The bill aims to eliminate what sponsors view as an unfair surcharge on customers who prefer or need traditional paper billing methods.

Why is this important

Many elderly, low-income, and less tech-savvy consumers rely on paper bills for budget tracking and record-keeping. Some telecommunications companies charge $1-3 monthly fees for paper billing, which can disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. This bill addresses whether companies should be able to monetize billing format preferences.

Potential points of contention

  • Business cost arguments: Telecommunications companies may argue that paper billing, postage, and processing involve genuine operational costs that electronic billing avoids, and that fees reflect these expenses rather than pure profit extraction
  • Digital equity vs. consumer choice: While protecting paper bill access is framed as equity, opponents might argue it could incentivize companies to raise base rates for all customers to offset paper billing costs
  • Regulatory scope: Questions about whether Connecticut can unilaterally regulate this practice for companies operating across multiple states, and whether federal telecom law preempts state billing requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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