HI HR162

Urges Congress to recognize state-level opposition to the Federal Communications Commission's 2017 repeal of net neutrality regulations and to immediately restore those regulations.

References Hawaii Governor David Ige's February 2018 executive order requiring state agencies to obtain internet services only from providers that abide by net neutrality principles, and notes similar executive orders signed by governors of Montana, New York, New Jersey, and Vermont.

Requests the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to study the costs and benefits of establishing a state-owned public utility company to provide high-speed broadband internet service, similar to successful models in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Sandy, Oregon.

Requires the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes.

Directs transmission of certified copies to congressional leadership, Hawaii's Congressional Delegation, the FCC Chairperson, governors and legislative leaders of all 50 states, and the Hawaii Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.