Bill > S2345

This bill, known as the Rhode Island Broadband Oversight and Accountability Act of 2026, aims to remove existing legal barriers that prevent Rhode Island from overseeing and monitoring broadband services, which are defined as high-speed internet access delivered through various technologies like fiber optic or wireless. It clarifies that "Internet" refers to the global network of interconnected computer systems, and defines "Voice over Internet Protocol service" (VoIP) as real-time voice communication over the internet. The act repeals a previous prohibition that effectively made state regulation or monitoring of broadband illegal, while explicitly stating it does not grant new regulatory authority to the Public Utilities Commission or the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, but retains the General Assembly's power to enact oversight measures. Furthermore, it directs the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to develop and submit a comprehensive plan within one year for establishing a broadband oversight authority or a similar structure, which will outline its mission, responsibilities, organizational framework, funding, and timeline for implementation, with the goal of ensuring reliable, equitable, and accountable broadband services for all Rhode Islanders, especially in light of significant federal funding received for broadband development.

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