Arizona House Bill HB2357

Arizona 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23

Caption

Broadband; internet protocol services; commission.

Impact

This bill is poised to significantly impact state laws concerning telecommunications by centralizing authority over broadband and VoIP service regulation within the state commission. By implementing rigorous oversight, the commission will be able to conduct evaluations and audits of ISPs, thereby ensuring that infrastructure meets quality and safety standards. The annual reporting requirement to the legislature will also create a framework for ongoing legislative oversight and accountability in broadband service delivery.

Summary

House Bill 2357 seeks to reform the oversight of broadband and voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services in Arizona. Specifically, it aims to repeal the existing Section 40-212 of the Arizona Revised Statutes and replace it with a new statute designed to enhance the regulation and resilience of broadband infrastructure. The new provisions mandate that the state commission oversee and establish rules that ensure network reliability and public safety for internet service providers (ISPs). These rules will require ISPs to report on network performance and adhere to standards for emergency preparedness and service restoration after outages.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance service quality and reliability, there may be points of contention among stakeholders. ISPs might raise concerns about the potential costs associated with compliance and reporting requirements. Similarly, consumer advocacy groups could debate whether the regulatory controls are sufficiently robust to guarantee that all communities, including rural or underserved areas, have access to affordable and reliable broadband services. Furthermore, the definition of what constitutes sufficient resilience and reliability will likely be a topic for discussion as the bill progresses.