Substitute Senate Bill No. 1295, also known as Public Act No. 25-113, establishes a framework for affordable broadband Internet access in Connecticut, effective July 1, 2025. The bill defines terms such as "affordable broadband Internet access service," "eligible household," and "qualified broadband Internet access service provider," and mandates the creation of the "Net Equality Program" by the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection, allowing eligible households to subscribe to affordable broadband services starting October 1, 2026. It sets a maximum monthly cost of $40 for these services, with adjustments based on the consumer price index starting June 1, 2027, and outlines minimum speed requirements that will increase over time. The bill also requires state agencies to prefer broadband providers offering affordable services when entering contracts and mandates annual reporting on service uptake by eligible households.

In addition to broadband provisions, the bill introduces amendments to the Connecticut Lottery Corporation's licensing and operational procedures, including the establishment of vendor licenses with a nonrefundable application fee of $250. It allows the Lottery Corporation to use delivery services from non-licensed organizations under strict security measures and modifies occupational licensing requirements for gaming employees. The bill also enhances consumer data protection, particularly regarding sensitive health information, and introduces new regulations for online gaming operators and social media platforms, particularly concerning minors' data. Overall, the legislation aims to improve access to essential services, enhance consumer protections, and ensure responsible data handling in various contexts.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-529
GL Joint Favorable Substitute: 42-529, 42-529a, 42-529b, 42-529c
File No. 576: 42-529, 42-529a, 42-529b, 42-529c
Public Act No. 25-113: 12-815a, 42-515, 42-516, 42-518, 42-520, 42-521, 42-522, 42-529, 42-529a, 42-529b, 42-158ff