H.F. No. 555 Summary

• Requires state agencies and political subdivisions purchasing broadband internet service to include binding agreements with providers certifying they will not block lawful content, impair traffic based on content/devices, engage in paid prioritization, unreasonably interfere with customer choice, or use deceptive marketing practices (subject to reasonable network management exceptions).

• Mandates contract termination provisions allowing state agencies and political subdivisions to unilaterally terminate broadband service contracts and require providers to remunerate all revenues earned during any violation period.

• Prohibits all internet service providers offering service to Minnesota customers from engaging in the same five prohibited activities, with violations enforceable by the commissioner of commerce and attorney general under consumer protection laws.

• Requires internet service providers to file certification documents under penalty of perjury with the commissioner of commerce before offering service to Minnesota customers, with false certifications enforceable as criminal violations.

• Exempts emergency communications, law enforcement, public safety, and national security activities from these restrictions, and excludes geographic areas with only single internet service provider availability.