New York has initiated a law mandating that Internet service providers charge low-income residents no more than $15 or $20 per month for broadband, inspiring similar legislative efforts in states like Vermont, Massachusetts, and California. New Vermont legislator Christopher Morrow cited the digital divide exposed during COVID-19 as a reason for the initiative. As federal deregulation continues, courts have clarified that states retain the right to impose such broadband laws, given that the FCC has stepped back from regulating ISPs under Title II, especially after a recent federal appeals court ruling.
"Affordability is a big issue in Vermont and there are many stories of children who couldn't study properly during COVID for lack of Internet. It exposed the digital divide. This is a small gesture to help folks out."
"Despite industry attempts to block the New York law and other broadband regulations, courts have made it clear that states can impose stricter requirements on Internet service when the Federal Communications Commission isn't regulating Internet providers as common carriers under Title II of the Communications Act."
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