Bill > H0011

This bill establishes comprehensive consumer protections for broadband and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services in Vermont. The legislation creates a new subchapter called the "Vermont Broadband Consumer Protection and Competition Act" that aims to promote a competitive and fair broadband market. Key provisions include prohibiting unfair practices by broadband providers, such as misrepresenting service terms, imposing excessive termination fees, charging unreasonable equipment fees, and implementing predatory data caps. The bill requires providers to submit annual reports to the Attorney General detailing their service plans, pricing, and performance, and establishes a consumer complaint tracking system. For VoIP services, the bill mandates the Commissioner of Public Service to monitor health and public safety risks, review outage reports, ensure E-911 compliance, and develop consumer education initiatives. The Attorney General is empowered to investigate and enforce these protections, with the ability to assess costs against providers and submit annual reports to the General Assembly. The bill also includes special provisions to protect consumers during declared states of emergency and emphasizes the importance of broadband access for economic, educational, and social opportunities in Vermont's rural communities. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage and is designed to be liberally construed to accomplish its consumer protection goals.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.11