This bill proposes a significant reduction in the assessment rates for certain local exchange carriers and providers of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and IP-enabled services in New Hampshire. Specifically, it amends RSA 363-A:2, I(c) and (d) to decrease the percentage of gross utility revenue assessed from 33% to 10% for all excepted local exchange carriers and their affiliates, as well as for all providers of VoIP and IP-enabled services. This change aims to alleviate the financial burden on these entities by lowering the revenue they are required to contribute to the Public Utilities Commission.

The bill also clarifies the definitions of VoIP and IP-enabled services, ensuring that the assessment reductions apply to services that provide specific voice capabilities, while excluding cellular mobile radio communications service providers. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025, allowing time for the affected entities to adjust to the new assessment rates. Overall, the bill seeks to promote a more favorable regulatory environment for telecommunications providers in New Hampshire.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 363-A:2
As Amended by the House: 363-A:2
Version adopted by both bodies: 363-A:2
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 363-A:2