California Assembly Bill AB2289

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/26
• Refer: 3/9/26
• Report Pass: 4/9/26
• Refer: 4/9/26
• Refer: 4/13/26
• Report Pass: 4/15/26
• Refer: 4/15/26
• Refer: 5/6/26

Caption

An act to amend, repeal, and add Section 3502.2 of the Business and Professions Code, to amend, repeal, and add Section 1798.91 of the Civil Code, to amend and repeal Section 11549.52 of, to amend, repeal, and add Sections 6547.7, 11011.2, and 53112 of, to add Section 8889.1 to, and to repeal Chapter 13 (commencing with Section 8885) of Division 1 of Title 2 of, the Government Code, to amend, repeal, and add Sections 1524.7 and 1569.159 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend, repeal, and add Section 1720 of the Labor Code, to amend, repeal, and add Section 429 of the Penal Code, and to amend Sections 216, 233, and 301 270, 301, and 5830 of, and to amend and repeal Sections 278, 280, 280.5, 281, 281.2, 281.6, 912.2, 914.6, 914.7, 2881, 2881.1, 2881.2, and 2881.4 of, to amend, repeal, and add Sections 270.1, 281.1, 285, 5890, and 5900 of, to add Section Sections 710 and 1700 to, and to add Division 8 (commencing with Section 20000) to, the Public Utilities Code, relating to public utilities.

Impact

The passage of AB 2289 is expected to significantly reshape the landscape of telecommunications regulation within California. By centralizing broadband and digital equity activities under one office, the bill aims to streamline operations and improve coordination in the delivery of broadband services to marginalized communities. Existing programs like the California Teleconnect Fund and the California Advanced Services Fund will be absorbed into this new office, ensuring focused efforts on achieving universal service in broadband access. The bill is likely to enhance regulatory frameworks that ensure low-income households and communities facing barriers to adoption receive necessary support for broadband services.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2289, introduced by Assembly Member Boerner, aims to amend and establish several regulations concerning public utilities, specifically telecommunications. The bill focuses on enhancing broadband access and digital equity by creating the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity, which is set to take over administrative functions pertaining to broadband infrastructure and related programs by July 1, 2028. This initiative seeks to promote universal broadband deployment, particularly in unserved and underserved areas of California, enhancing educational, health, and economic opportunities for residents across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 2289 appears to be largely supportive among stakeholders who emphasize the need for improved broadband access and digital services equity in California. Proponents argue that centralized governance will lead to better policy implementation and ultimately greater access to technology for the state's underserved populations. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies or lack of local control once these functions are centralized, leading to mixed feelings among local governments and some advocacy groups.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's timeline for implementation, with several provisions becoming operative as of July 1, 2028, which some observers see as a lengthy delay in addressing urgent connectivity needs. Furthermore, there may be concerns regarding the distribution of the allocated funding and the effectiveness of the new structures in genuinely reaching low-income and rural communities. Critics may question whether existing frameworks have adequately accounted for the distinct needs and challenges faced by different regions, especially in ensuring that all Californians can meaningfully access and benefit from high-speed Internet.