Senate Bill 148 (sSB148 File No. 48) is designed to regulate the terms of electronic book and digital audiobook license agreements between libraries and publishers, effective from July 1, 2026. The bill defines relevant terms and makes certain restrictive clauses in these agreements unenforceable, such as those that limit a library's ability to loan materials, restrict the number of licenses a library can purchase, or require libraries to disclose confidential patron information. Prohibited provisions are deemed unfair trade practices, subject to enforcement by the attorney general. The bill also allows for certain limitations, such as the number of simultaneous borrowers and the use of technological protection measures to ensure borrowed materials are not accessed beyond the loan period.

The bill applies to various types of libraries in Connecticut that receive state funding, including public, school, academic, tribal libraries, and public archives. It aims to protect libraries' operational functions and potentially save money for publicly funded entities that provide e-books. The Planning and Development Committee has passed the bill with a Joint Favorable vote of 19 Yeas to 1 Nay on March 1, 2024.