NY A07836

Requires providers operating residential facilities for persons with developmental disabilities (including family care homes) to provide free high-quality internet access to all residents, including wireless networks for personal devices.

Defines "high quality internet service" as current industry standard or minimum 100 megabits per second download speed and 10 megabits per second upload speed, whichever is higher, or the fastest commercially available service where higher speeds are unavailable.

Prohibits facilities from charging any fees related to internet access, wireless connectivity, or devices used to access internet services.

Exempts facilities in geographic regions with limited or no access to high-quality internet service (upon commissioner approval) and cases where a resident's treatment team determines internet access would be clinically inappropriate.

Requires facility operators to take reasonable steps to protect resident privacy and safety while maintaining internet access, limiting use of personal information to only what is necessary.

Takes effect 180 days after enactment, with authority to issue implementing rules and regulations immediately.