2025 -- H 5578
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LC002116
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S T A T E O F R H O D E I S L A N D
IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2025
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A N A C T
RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- REGULATORY POWER S OF
ADMINISTRATION
Introduced By: Representatives Kazarian, Dawson, DeSimone, Voas, Alzate, Stewart,
Edwards, Morales, Furtado, and Casimiro
Date Introduced: February 26, 2025
Referred To: House Corporations
It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:
1
SECTION 1. Chapter 39-3 of the General Laws entitled "Regulatory Powers of 2
Administration" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section: 3
39-3-11.4. Internet access rates for seniors. 4
(a) For purposes of this section, "Internet" means collectively the myriad of computer and 5
telecommunications facilities, including equipment and operating software, that comprise the 6
interconnected worldwide network of networks that employ the transmission control 7
protocol/Internet protocol, or any predecessor or successor protocols, to such protocol, to 8
communicate information of all kinds by wire or radio. 9
(b) Effective January 1, 2026, providers of access to the Internet shall not increase rates for 10
persons sixty-two (62) years or older for connection services to the Internet. 11
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage. 12
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LC002116
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LC002116 - Page 2 of 2
EXPLANATION
BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
OF
A N A C T
RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- REGULATORY POWE RS OF
ADMINISTRATION
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This act would prohibit public utilities from raising the cost for access to the Internet for 1
senior citizens. 2
This act would take effect upon passage. 3
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LC002116
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