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Bill

S 6066

Relates to state contracts being only with internet service providers compliant with net neutrality

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jamaal Bailey and 6 co-sponsors

Bill S 6066 ensures state contracts with ISPs comply with net neutrality, protecting consumer access to all internet content without discrimination or paid prioritization.

REFERRED TO FINANCE
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 6066

Summary of Bill S 6066

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 6066
  • Title: Relates to state contracts being only with internet service providers compliant with net neutrality
  • Status: Referred to Finance
  • Introduced On: March 05, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 6066 is to ensure that the state of only enters into contracts with internet service providers (ISPs) that adhere to net neutrality principles. This legislation aims to protect consumers' rights to access the internet freely and without discrimination, ensuring that all data on the internet is treated equally, regardless of the source.

Key Provisions

  • Contractual Compliance: The bill mandates that any ISP wishing to enter into a contract with the state must demonstrate compliance with net neutrality standards. This includes:

    • Prohibiting ISPs from blocking or throttling access to legal content, applications, and services.
    • Preventing ISPs from engaging in paid prioritization, which could create "fast lanes" for certain content providers.

  • Verification Process: The bill outlines a process for verifying ISP compliance with net neutrality, which may include:

    • Submission of documentation proving adherence to net neutrality principles.
    • Regular audits or assessments to ensure ongoing compliance.

  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: The bill may establish penalties for ISPs that fail to comply with the net neutrality requirements after entering into a contract with the state.

Affected Parties

  • Internet Service Providers: All ISPs seeking to contract with the state will be directly impacted, as they will need to demonstrate compliance with net neutrality.
  • Consumers: The bill aims to benefit consumers by ensuring that they have equal access to all internet content and services without interference from ISPs.
  • State Agencies: Agencies that rely on internet services will need to adjust their procurement processes to align with the new requirements.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of March 5, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Finance Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is part of a broader legislative effort, with several related bills from prior sessions (S 7175, S 4368, S 4666, S 7915) and a companion bill (A 7126) that may address similar issues regarding net neutrality and ISP regulations.

Conclusion

Bill S 6066 represents a significant step towards reinforcing net neutrality within state contracts, aiming to protect consumer rights and promote fair access to internet services. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for ISPs and consumers will become clearer, particularly in terms of compliance requirements and enforcement mechanisms.

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

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