HB 1995 Summary

• Prohibits broadband internet service providers in Hawaii from blocking lawful content, impairing or degrading internet traffic, or engaging in paid prioritization practices.

• Creates net neutrality protections in state law allowing exceptions to paid prioritization only if demonstrated to provide significant public interest benefit without harming the open internet.

• Establishes a task force within the Public Utilities Commission to examine costs, benefits, and feasibility of creating a state-owned public utility company to provide broadband internet service in Hawaii.

• Task force required to submit recommendations and proposed legislation to the legislature by twenty days prior to the 2019 regular session, addressing consumer access to free and open internet.

• Effective date set for July 1, 3000 (non-functional date).