HB 5214

Abstract

Amends the Public Utilities Act. Repeals provisions requiring the Illinois Commerce Commission to establish a Universal Telephone Service Assistance Program for low-income residential customers and to adopt rules providing for enhanced enrollment for eligible consumers to receive lifeline service. Repeals a provision requiring an Electing Provider, located in the same geographic area in which local exchange telecommunications services were classified as competitive, to be subject to the same terms and conditions as provided in commitments made by the Electing Provider in connection with the previous competitive classifications. Repeals provisions requiring an Electing Provider to continue to offer and provide the optional packages under the Act to existing customers and new customers through July 1, 2017. Amends the Illinois Broadband Adoption Fund Act. Provides that "broadband internet" means a minimum service level of at least 25 megabits per second download speed. Provides that "provider" means a provider of communication services or broadband Internet in the State. Provides for the provision of devices used to connect to the Internet. Provides that providers shall notify customers that, if the customer wishes to participate in the funding of the Illinois Broadband Adoption Fund, the customer may do so by electing to contribute on a monthly basis a fixed amount that will be included in the customer's monthly bill. Sets forth related requirements. Describes a customer's right to cease contributing to the Fund at any time. Effective immediately.