Overview

• The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has reversed a 2021 decision that blocked New York's $15 broadband law, which mandates affordable internet for low-income residents.
• The law requires ISPs to offer broadband at a maximum of $15 per month for 25Mbps service, with provisions for periodic price adjustments.
• Trade groups argued the law was preempted by federal regulations, but the court found these claims unconvincing, citing lack of federal authority to regulate broadband rates.
• The ruling could set a precedent for other states looking to implement similar broadband affordability measures.
• ISPs have options to challenge the law, including lobbying for legislative changes or revisiting FCC classifications.