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BROADBAND AND TELECOM BILLS

H.121, the Affordable Broadband Service Act, requires Vermont ISPs to offer low-income households affordable broadband by October 1, 2025. The bill mandates a Basic Plan (25 Mbps for $15/month) and an Enhanced Plan (200 Mbps for $20/month), including taxes and fees. Eligible households include those in federal Lifeline programs or Vermont’s Home Heating Fuel Assistance Program. The Public Utility Commission will oversee compliance, allowing annual price adjustments (capped at 2%), waivers for speed requirements, and exemptions for small ISPs (under 20,000 customers) facing financial hardship. ISPs must report subscriber data, advertising efforts, and pricing annually to the Department of Public Service, which will review standards every five years. Non-compliance is an unfair and deceptive act, with fines of up to $1,000 per violation. ISPs must actively promote these plans. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

H.11 aims to promote fair broadband and VoIP services in Vermont by preventing deceptive practices and encouraging competition. It includes provisions such as ensuring net neutrality, prohibiting unfair fees, and requiring transparency from providers. The bill also mandates consumer complaint tracking, market monitoring by the Attorney General, and protection against service disconnections during emergencies. Additionally, it establishes a program to monitor the safety and reliability of VoIP services, including backup power requirements and consumer education.

This is proposed broadband consumer label that is intended to inform consumers so they know what they are buying.