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Bill

HB 798

UTILITIES: Creates the Broadband and Cable Price Notice Act (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tehmi Chassion and 1 co-sponsor

Louisiana bill requiring broadband and cable providers to notify customers of price increases in advance, enhancing consumer transparency but potentially creating provider compliance costs.

Read by title, returned to the calendar.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 798

Legislative bill overview

HB 798 creates the Broadband and Cable Price Notice Act, which requires utilities and service providers to give consumers advance notice of price increases for broadband and cable services. The bill establishes notification procedures and timelines that providers must follow before implementing rate hikes on these services.

Why is this important

Rising broadband and cable costs have been a persistent consumer complaint, with many households facing unexpected bill increases. This transparency measure gives consumers time to evaluate alternatives, negotiate, or adjust their budgets before prices change. It addresses a market information gap where providers could raise rates with minimal warning.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider compliance costs: Cable and broadband companies argue notification requirements create administrative burdens and may encourage competitors to poach customers during notice periods, potentially shifting costs to remaining subscribers
  • Rate-setting authority scope: Unclear whether the bill prevents rate increases or merely mandates notification—if only notification is required, consumer protection value is limited
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill may lack clear definitions of what constitutes a "price increase" (e.g., promotional rate expirations, bundled service changes, equipment fees) creating enforcement disputes
  • Preemption questions: Potential conflict with federal telecommunications law or existing state utility commission authority over rate regulation

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

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