Bill > S2318

This bill requires broadband internet service providers in Massachusetts to offer affordable high-speed internet service to low-income consumers, defined as households participating in assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or with annual incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Providers must offer broadband service at no more than $15 per month, with a minimum download speed of 100 megabits per second, and can increase prices by up to 2% every five years. Providers are also required to actively promote this service, prominently displaying enrollment procedures on their websites and marketing materials. They must submit annual compliance reports to the state's department of telecommunications and cable, detailing service offerings, enrollment numbers, eligibility verification procedures, and advertising efforts. The bill allows providers offering 200 megabits per second service at $20 per month to be considered compliant, and empowers the state's attorney general to enforce the law with potential civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation. Additionally, the department of telecommunications and cable must review and potentially update broadband speed requirements and eligibility criteria every five years to ensure the program continues to meet consumer needs.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2318