Bill > A09695

This bill, known as the "cellular mapping act," directs the Public Service Commission (PSC) to conduct a comprehensive review of cellular services across New York State. The PSC will define and assess areas as "served for calling" (at least two providers or one with over 90% call completion), "underserved" (fewer than two providers or 30-90% call completion), and "unserved" (no providers or less than 30% call completion). It also establishes definitions for different levels of internet download speeds, such as "excellent cellular coverage" (at least 25 megabits per second or mbps) and "adequate cellular coverage" (5-25 mbps), and defines "no cellular coverage" as failing over 50% of speed tests. The commission is tasked with studying the availability, affordability, and reliability of these services, considering federal data, recommending ways to increase competition and achieve excellent coverage, identifying solutions for underserved or unserved areas, and pinpointing locations where poor coverage negatively impacts communities economically or socially, including issues with emergency services and remote education. Furthermore, the PSC must create and maintain a detailed public map of cellular service access by location, including call completion rates, download speeds, consistency, number of providers, and prices, and allow consumers to challenge test results. The commission will then report its findings and recommendations annually, including data on coverage levels, affordability, and usage, and hold at least four regional public hearings to gather input from various stakeholders. Finally, the PSC will examine the workforce needed for statewide excellent cellular coverage and work with providers to prioritize service expansion to communities most affected by inadequate cellular access.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9695