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SF 3095

Internet service providers requirement to provide low-cost broadband Internet to low-income Minnesotans

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Hoffman

Minnesota bill requiring ISPs to provide affordable broadband packages to low-income residents to bridge digital divide and improve internet accessibility.

Referred to Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development
#telecommunicationsandinformationtechnology
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Bill Summary · SF 3095

Legislative bill overview

SF 3095 requires internet service providers (ISPs) operating in Minnesota to offer low-cost broadband internet packages to low-income households. The bill establishes affordability mandates for ISPs serving the state, though specific pricing thresholds and income eligibility criteria would be determined through the legislative process or regulatory framework.

Why is this important

Broadband access has become essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic participation, yet millions of low-income Americans lack affordable internet. Minnesota's digital divide particularly affects rural and economically disadvantaged communities, and mandating affordable options could expand access while reducing dependency on public subsidy programs.

Potential points of contention

  • ISP compliance costs: Providers may argue that mandatory low-cost offerings reduce profit margins and could discourage network investment in less profitable areas, potentially slowing broadband infrastructure expansion
  • Regulatory scope and feasibility: Defining "low-cost" and "low-income" thresholds requires detailed rulemaking; ISPs may challenge whether the state has authority to regulate pricing for interstate service providers
  • Market competition concerns: Critics may question whether mandates are necessary given existing federal programs (Affordable Connectivity Program) and whether market competition or subsidies are more efficient solutions

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

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