H.F. 642 Summary

• State agencies and political subdivisions must include binding net neutrality agreements in broadband contracts requiring ISPs to certify they will not block content, degrade traffic, engage in paid prioritization, or use deceptive marketing practices with respect to Minnesota customers.

• ISPs that violate net neutrality agreements with the state or political subdivisions must remunerate those entities for all revenues earned during the violation period and have their contracts unilaterally terminated.

• All Internet service providers offering service to Minnesota customers must file a certification under penalty of perjury with the commissioner of commerce stating they will not engage in blocking, throttling, paid prioritization, unreasonable interference, or deceptive practices regarding internet traffic.

• Violations are enforceable by the commissioner of commerce and attorney general under consumer protection laws, with criminal penalties for false certifications, and all enforcement proceedings must be held in Ramsey County.

• The bill exempts state agencies and political subdivisions purchasing broadband in geographic areas where only one ISP is available, and does not supersede ISP obligations related to emergency communications or law enforcement.