SB 1161 Summary

• Prohibits the Public Utilities Commission from regulating Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Internet Protocol enabled services until January 1, 2020, except as required by federal law or expressly authorized by statute.

• Defines VoIP as voice communications service using Internet Protocol that requires broadband connection and permits calls to and from the public switched telephone network.

• Prevents any state department, agency, commission, or political subdivision from enacting regulations on VoIP or IP enabled services unless required by federal law or expressly authorized by statute.

• Preserves certain regulatory authorities including emergency services surcharge laws, video competition requirements, federal Communications Act enforcement, and access to support structures like pole attachments.

• Maintains enforcement of criminal law, consumer protection laws, environmental quality standards, local utility taxes, and the commission's ability to monitor and report on VoIP complaints.