Commercial Law - Broadband Access - Low-Income Consumer Programs (Maryland Broadband Opportunity and Fairness Act)

SB 571 requires large broadband providers (serving 10,000+ customers) in Maryland to establish a low-cost broadband program for eligible low-income residents by December 1, 2026. The program must offer at least 100 Mbps download speed (200 Mbps for households of three or more), 1.2 terabytes of data, and limit annual network outages to an average of 48 hours. Eligibility is defined by income (at or below 350% of federal poverty guidelines) or participation in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or free school meals. Providers may adjust prices every three years by up to 2% or the Consumer Price Index change, with 30 days' notice to customers.