Substitute Bill No. 3 is a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at promoting consumer protection, digital equity, and access to broadband Internet services in the state. The bill defines relevant terms such as "broadband Internet access service" and "digital equity," and establishes the state's public policy to ensure affordable and reliable broadband access for all residents. It introduces the "Net Equality Program," which mandates that qualified broadband providers offer affordable services to eligible households, with criteria for eligibility based on participation in public assistance programs and location. Providers are required to facilitate the conversion to affordable services, advertise their availability, and submit annual reports to the Department of Consumer Protection. The bill also sets minimum speed requirements for broadband services and prohibits state agencies from contracting with providers that do not comply with these requirements.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions related to consumer goods and services, prohibiting businesses from advertising prices without including all required fees, except taxes, and defining "deceptive fees." It also addresses the purchase and operation of small unmanned aircraft systems by public entities, specifically banning systems made by covered foreign entities, with certain exceptions. The bill outlines regulations for connected devices with voice recognition features, requiring disclosure about the device's capabilities and prohibiting the use of recordings for advertising or law enforcement monitoring. It also establishes net neutrality principles for broadband providers, including the prohibition of paid prioritization and the requirement to disclose network management practices. Violations of these provisions may result in civil penalties. The bill further addresses the availability of repair services for electronic or appliance products, requiring manufacturers to provide necessary documentation, parts, and tools for repair on fair and reasonable terms. It includes exceptions for trade secrets and anti-theft measures, and sets effective dates for various sections ranging from the passage of the bill to January 1, 2025.