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SB 605

Public Service Commission - Broadband and Voice Over Internet Protocol Service - Study

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Washington

Maryland bill expands Public Service Commission authority to regulate broadband and VoIP services with accountability and affordability standards, subjecting internet and phone providers to utility-style oversight.

Motion Special Order until 4/10 (Senator Ready) Adopted
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Bill Summary · SB 605

Legislative bill overview

SB 605 expands the Maryland Public Service Commission's regulatory authority over broadband and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, bringing them under the same oversight framework currently applied to traditional telecommunications utilities. The bill establishes accountability and affordability standards for these services, requiring providers to meet performance benchmarks and pricing transparency requirements.

Why is this important

Broadband and VoIP services have become essential infrastructure for homes and businesses, yet currently operate with minimal state-level oversight compared to traditional phone and utility services. This bill would give Maryland regulators tools to address service quality complaints, enforce service standards, and potentially intervene in pricing disputes—directly affecting millions of residents' access to reliable, affordable internet and calling services.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden on providers: Broadband and VoIP companies argue that subjecting them to utility-style regulation increases compliance costs, which may be passed to consumers or discourage investment in network expansion
  • Pricing authority scope: Unclear whether "affordability standards" grant the PSC price-setting authority, which providers claim conflicts with market competition and federal telecommunications law
  • Definition and coverage: The bill may need clarification on which services qualify as "broadband" and "VoIP" (fiber, fixed wireless, satellite?) and whether it applies to all providers or only specific tiers

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

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