California proposes $15 monthly broadband plans for low-income residents

A new bill in California aims to require Internet service providers (ISPs) to offer affordable plans for low-income residents. The proposed law would mandate that ISPs provide a plan for $15 a month, with download speeds of at least 100Mbps and upload speeds of 20Mbps. This bill is similar to a law that was enacted in New York earlier this year. However, California's bill sets stricter speed requirements. The amendment to the bill, announced recently, specifies both the price and speed for these plans. Under the proposed law, ISPs must also actively promote these affordable plans on their websites and in other materials. The bill defines affordable service as a plan costing no more than $15 a month, which includes all taxes and fees. These plans would be available to households with at least one member participating in a public assistance program. While there is potential opposition from ISPs, California's bill reflects a trend among states towards requiring low-cost Internet service plans. Other states like Massachusetts and Vermont are considering similar legislation with varying speed and price requirements. The California bill requires ISPs to report on their affordable plans starting in 2027. This includes information on how many households purchased the service and how many were denied eligibility. The bill does not specify when the plans must be offered, leaving some details unclear.