Technology (Broadband Access)

passed · Rhode Island · House Apr 14, 2026

HR 8445: HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING APRIL 19-25, 2026, TO BE "NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

This bill officially designates April 19-25, 2026, as "National Library Week" throughout Rhode Island. It aims to recognize the role of libraries in providing community resources, internet access, and inclusive services to residents. The resolution thanks library staff for their work and encourages the public to visit libraries during the designated week. Additionally, it directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the proclamation to the state's Office of Library and Information Services and all local libraries.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyBill promotes internet access and digital equity by recognizing libraries as community resource hubs.75% confidence

Sub-Topics Broadband Access

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signed · Rhode Island · Senate Jun 18, 2026

SB 2601: AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- FACILITATING BUSINESS RAPID RESPONSE TO STATE DECLARED DISASTER ACT OF 2024

Incorporates cable, broadband, Internet, and wireless means into the crime of injuring electric and communication lines and authorizes municipalities to grant zoning relief for the protection of critical infrastructure.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyBill explicitly protects broadband/internet/wireless infrastructure by criminalizing damage to it and enabling zoning relief for critical infrastructure, directly advancing technology infrastructure security.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Broadband Access Telecommunications

died · Rhode Island · House Apr 8, 2026

HB 7543: AN ACT RELATING TO COMMERCIAL LAW -- GENERAL REGULATORY PROVISIONS -- INTERNET ACCESS AND ADVERTISING BY FACSIMILE

Requires that video or photography generated by artificial intelligence or “AI” that is posted on a public platform contain a marking disclosing that it has been generated by AI.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyRequires AI-generated content disclosure on public platforms for transparency, aligning with consumer protection regulations.85% confidence

Sub-Topics Artificial Intelligence Broadband Access

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died · Rhode Island · Senate Apr 7, 2026

SB 2345: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT ACT -- RHODE ISLAND BROADBAND OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2026

This bill repeals a law that previously blocked Rhode Island from monitoring or regulating broadband services, removing a barrier to state oversight. It requires the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to develop a plan for a broadband oversight office to monitor service quality, map coverage gaps, and coordinate federal broadband funding. The bill is necessary to meet federal requirements for managing programs like the BEAD grant, which demand ongoing state-level tracking of broadband performance and coverage. This oversight structure will enable the state to better manage public broadband investments and address unserved areas.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyRepeals barriers to broadband regulation, mandates oversight office to map coverage gaps and coordinate federal funding, advancing internet access and digital equity.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Broadband Access

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died · Rhode Island · House Feb 3, 2026

HB 7333: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT ACT -- RHODE ISLAND BROADBAND OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2026

HB 7333 creates the Rhode Island Broadband Oversight and Accountability Act of 2026 to remove legal barriers preventing state oversight of broadband services. It repeals a prior law that effectively banned Rhode Island from monitoring or regulating broadband performance, requiring the Commerce Corporation to develop a broadband office plan. This office would map coverage, monitor service quality, identify unserved areas, coordinate federal broadband funds (like BEAD), and ensure transparent reporting. The bill directly affects all Rhode Island residents and businesses relying on broadband for essential services like healthcare, education, and government access. It establishes concrete mechanisms for managing public broadband investments and meeting federal requirements for ongoing performance tracking.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyBill establishes broadband oversight to map coverage, monitor service quality, identify unserved areas, and coordinate federal funds for expanded internet access and infrastructure deployment.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Broadband Access Telecommunications

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died · Rhode Island · House Mar 5, 2026

HB 7120: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT ACT

Establishes a statewide broadband community outreach coordinator to assist state residents interested in learning more and/or applying for, the federal Affordable Connectivity Program.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyEstablishes broadband outreach coordinator to expand federal program access, directly advancing internet connectivity for residents.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Broadband Access

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died · Rhode Island · Senate Jan 13, 2026

SB 2014: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT ACT

SB 2014 requires Rhode Island internet service providers (ISPs) to regularly submit detailed data about broadband speeds, technology types, and coverage areas to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation. This data will be used to create and maintain an updated statewide broadband map identifying underserved or unserved communities. The map aims to guide infrastructure investments, support policy decisions, and help providers expand services in areas with limited access. The bill was introduced in January 2026 but withdrawn on January 13, 2026, at the sponsor’s request.

Topics ✓ TechnologySupports TechnologyRequires ISPs to submit broadband data to create statewide map identifying underserved areas, guiding infrastructure investments to expand internet access and address digital gaps.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Broadband Access

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