Bill > A06146

This bill requires local telephone companies to provide customers with a free option to block certain information-access services, such as "adult" messages, group calling services, and recorded information and entertainment services. Prior to this legislation, customers were charged a five-dollar fee to block these services. The bill amends the public service law by mandating that telephone companies cover the cost of providing blocking services and informing customers about these services, and explicitly states that these costs cannot be included in the telephone company's rate base (the financial basis for determining utility rates). Additionally, the bill requires the public service commission to develop and implement appropriate rules and regulations related to these blocking services within 120 days of the law's effective date. The legislation aims to protect consumers by eliminating fees for blocking unwanted services and ensuring that the costs of implementing these blocking options are absorbed by the telephone companies rather than passed on to customers.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6146