UTILITIES-BROADBAND ASSISTANCE

Amends the Public Utilities Act. Replaces provisions relating to the Universal Telephone Service Assistance Program with provisions that require the Illinois Commerce Commission to establish a Universal Broadband Service Assistance Program. Provides that the Program shall provide for a reduction of monthly charges, a reduction of installation charges, devices used in connection to the Internet, or any other alternative assistance or program to increase accessibility to broadband service and broadband Internet access service that the Commission deems advisable subject to the availability of funds for the program. Makes other conforming changes. Creates a similar program for low-income residential customers of cable and video service providers. Extends the repeal of the Telecommunications and Cable and Video Competition Articles from December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2022. Effective immediately. Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Deletes reference to: 220 ILCS 5/13-1200 220 ILCS 5/21-1601 Removes provisions that extend the repeal of the Telecommunications and Cable and Video Competition Articles of the Public Utilities Act from December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2022.