Bill > S03860

This bill provides comprehensive regulatory control over Internet service providers (ISPs) in New York to ensure net neutrality, protecting consumers and businesses from potentially discriminatory internet access practices. The legislation establishes strict rules preventing ISPs from blocking, slowing, or prioritizing internet traffic based on content, source, or destination, with exceptions only for reasonable network management practices. Key provisions include prohibiting ISPs from engaging in paid prioritization, blocking lawful content, implementing application-specific pricing, or zero-rating certain internet traffic in ways that could disadvantage competitors. The bill requires ISPs to be transparent about their network management practices and applies these rules to cable operators, video service providers, and any entities receiving state funding for broadband infrastructure. Additionally, the legislation mandates that state and municipal agencies cannot purchase internet services from providers who violate these net neutrality principles, effectively creating strong economic incentives for compliance. The bill also requires the public service commission to evaluate how these net neutrality provisions might impact the state's power grid and infrastructure, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to regulating internet access as a critical public utility. The regulations will take effect 60 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for developing necessary implementation rules.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3860