RI S2345

Repeals existing statutory prohibition that prevented Rhode Island state agencies from regulating, monitoring, or overseeing VoIP and IP-enabled broadband services

Requires the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to develop and submit within one year a detailed plan for creating a broadband oversight authority or similar structure

The required plan must include recommendations for mission, organizational structure, staffing, funding mechanisms, intergovernmental collaboration framework, and implementation timeline

Authorizes the Commerce Corporation to hire contractors or add staff to complete the plan, with consultation from municipalities, providers, public safety agencies, and other stakeholders

Preserves the General Assembly's authority to enact future oversight, reporting, planning, and performance-monitoring statutes for broadband services without expanding Public Utilities Commission jurisdiction