Bill
S 4938
Bill S 4938 mandates free internet for low-income households with students, ensuring equitable access to online education and essential services for better opportunities.
Title: Relates to requiring free internet service in households with students who live at or below the poverty level
Bill Number: S 4938
Introduced On: February 14, 2025
Current Status: Referred to Energy and Telecommunications
Classification: Bill
Bill S 4938 aims to address the digital divide faced by low-income households with students. The primary intent of the legislation is to ensure that all students, particularly those living at or below the poverty level, have access to free internet service. This initiative recognizes the critical role that internet connectivity plays in education, especially in an increasingly digital learning environment.
Free Internet Service Requirement: The bill mandates that internet service providers (ISPs) offer free internet access to households with students who qualify as living at or below the poverty level.
Eligibility Criteria: The bill specifies that eligibility will be determined based on income levels, aligning with federal poverty guidelines.
Implementation Framework: The legislation outlines a framework for how ISPs will implement this requirement, including potential funding mechanisms or subsidies to support the provision of free services.
Reporting and Accountability: ISPs may be required to report on the number of households served and the quality of service provided to ensure compliance with the bill's provisions.
Students: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students from low-income families who currently lack reliable internet access, which can hinder their educational opportunities.
Households: Families living at or below the poverty level will gain access to essential internet services, which can also benefit other household members in terms of job searching, remote work, and accessing essential services.
Internet Service Providers: ISPs will need to adjust their service offerings and potentially collaborate with state or federal programs to meet the requirements set forth in the bill.
Legislative Process: As of February 14, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Energy and Telecommunications Committee for further consideration.
Related Legislation: This bill is part of a broader legislative effort, with related bills from prior sessions (S 9057, S 4017, and S 5548) indicating ongoing legislative interest in addressing internet access for low-income households.
Bill S 4938 represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide for low-income students. By mandating free internet service for eligible households, the legislation seeks to enhance educational equity and ensure that all students have the necessary tools to succeed in a digital learning environment. The bill is currently under review by the Energy and Telecommunications Committee, and its progress will be closely monitored by advocates for educational equity and digital access.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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