Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1036

Introduced
2/24/26  
Refer
2/24/26  

Caption

An Act to amend 100.20 (1v), 100.20 (5) and 100.20 (6); to create 100.2085 of the statutes; Relating to: advertising broadband and other Internet speeds and providing a standardized broadband label.

Impact

The implementation of SB1036 will likely influence existing state regulations on broadband service providers and advertising practices. By standardizing the way internet speeds are presented to consumers, the bill will impact how providers market their services, aiming to create a level playing field in advertising claims. This change could enhance consumer trust and satisfaction, potentially increasing the overall usage of broadband services as users feel more confident in their choices based on clearer information.

Summary

SB1036 is designed to improve transparency in the advertising of broadband and other internet service speeds by mandating standardized labeling across providers. This bill aims to ensure that consumers have access to accurate information regarding the internet services they purchase, which is essential for fair competition in the market. By creating a consistent labeling format, the bill seeks to eliminate confusion and misinformation, allowing consumers to make informed choices based on reliable data about service capabilities and speeds offered by different providers.

Contention

While proponents of SB1036 argue that it will greatly benefit consumers by ensuring clarity in advertising, there are concerns from some service providers who fear that the regulations could impose additional burdens on their marketing practices. Critics posit that strict labeling requirements might restrict providers' ability to effectively promote their offerings, thus affecting competition. Additionally, the debate around the implementation timelines and enforcement of these standards may lead to discussions on how to balance consumer protection with business flexibility.

Companion Bills

WI AB1067

Crossfiled An Act to amend 100.20 (1v), 100.20 (5) and 100.20 (6); to create 100.2085 of the statutes; Relating to: advertising broadband and other Internet speeds and providing a standardized broadband label.

Previously Filed As

WI SB1131

Debt collection.

WI AB1067

Advertising broadband and other Internet speeds and providing a standardized broadband label.

WI AB2650

CalSavers: retirement savings.

WI AB2607

California Americans with Disabilities Act Small Business Capital Access Loan Program.

WI AB2263

An act to amend Sections 100001.5, 100130.5, and 100170 100001.5 and 100130.5 of the Public Utilities Code, relating to housing.

WI SB10

Provides relative to rural broadband high-speed internet access.

WI H0675

Amends existing law to revise the definition of broadband.

WI HB1838

Broadband Internet for Small Ports Act

WI HF974

Equal Access to Broadband Act established, and provisions governing broadband services and broadband infrastructure modified.

WI SF868

Broadband grants used for fixed wireless broadband authorization and broadband mapping requirements clarification provision

Similar Bills

LA SB10

Provides relative to rural broadband high-speed internet access.

IL HB1737

BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT ACT

CA AB1271

Communications: broadband internet service providers.

HI HB934

Relating To The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office.

TX SB1405

Relating to increasing access to and reducing taxation of Internet services.

HI SB1062

Relating To The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office.

HI SB1062

Relating To The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office.

IL SB3652

BROADBAND PROVIDERS-EASEMENTS