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S 3343

Requires broadband providers to offer high speed broadband service to certain low-income consumers

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kristen Gonzalez and 2 co-sponsors

Bill S 3343 mandates broadband providers to offer affordable high-speed internet to low-income households, enhancing access to education and economic opportunities.

REFERRED TO ENERGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 3343

Summary of Bill S 3343

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 3343
  • Title: Requires broadband providers to offer high-speed broadband service to certain low-income consumers
  • Status: Referred to Energy and Telecommunications
  • Introduced On: January 27, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 3343 is to ensure that low-income consumers have access to high-speed broadband services. This legislation aims to address the digital divide by mandating that broadband providers offer affordable high-speed internet options to eligible low-income households. The intent is to enhance connectivity, improve access to educational resources, and support economic opportunities for underserved communities.

Key Provisions

  • Mandatory Offerings: Broadband providers will be required to offer high-speed broadband services at reduced rates to qualifying low-income consumers.
  • Eligibility Criteria: The bill outlines specific criteria that consumers must meet to qualify for these services, although detailed eligibility requirements are not specified in the provided information.
  • Service Standards: The bill may establish minimum service standards for what constitutes "high-speed" broadband, ensuring that the service provided meets certain performance benchmarks.
  • Reporting Requirements: Broadband providers may be required to report on their compliance with the bill, including the number of low-income consumers served and the rates charged.

Affected Parties

  • Low-Income Consumers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be low-income households who currently lack access to affordable high-speed internet.
  • Broadband Providers: Internet service providers will be directly impacted as they will need to adjust their service offerings and pricing structures to comply with the new requirements.
  • Educational Institutions and Employers: By increasing access to high-speed internet, schools and employers may see improved engagement and productivity from low-income individuals who can now participate more fully in online learning and remote work opportunities.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 27, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Energy and Telecommunications Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to prior-session bills S 5525 and S 7912, as well as a companion bill A 190, which may provide additional context or support for the current legislative effort.

Conclusion

Bill S 3343 represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide for low-income consumers by mandating affordable access to high-speed broadband services. As it moves through the legislative process, its provisions and potential impacts will be closely monitored by stakeholders in the telecommunications industry and advocacy groups focused on digital equity.

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

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