This legislation directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish regulations requiring broadband service providers to present a clear, easy-to-understand, and accurate single aggregate price for their services. This aggregate price must be prominently displayed on subscriber bills and included in all promotional materials. The bill aims to ensure consumers are fully aware of the total cost of their broadband service upfront, preventing unexpected charges. Furthermore, the bill prohibits broadband providers from imposing specific types of "covered fees" on subscribers. These include charges commonly known as state cost recovery charges, network access and maintenance fees, local access fees, and tech assure fees. The FCC is also empowered to identify and prohibit any other similar fees that obscure the true cost of service, thereby protecting consumers from hidden charges. For introductory or time-limited pricing, providers must clearly disclose the duration of the special rate and the price that will apply afterward, both on bills and in promotional content. The regulations will also specify certain charges, such as taxes or equipment fees, that are not required to be included in the aggregate price. This comprehensive approach seeks to eliminate hidden costs and improve overall pricing transparency for broadband consumers.
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Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Lower Internet Costs Act
USA119th CongressHR-5550| House
| Updated: 9/23/2025
This legislation directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish regulations requiring broadband service providers to present a clear, easy-to-understand, and accurate single aggregate price for their services. This aggregate price must be prominently displayed on subscriber bills and included in all promotional materials. The bill aims to ensure consumers are fully aware of the total cost of their broadband service upfront, preventing unexpected charges. Furthermore, the bill prohibits broadband providers from imposing specific types of "covered fees" on subscribers. These include charges commonly known as state cost recovery charges, network access and maintenance fees, local access fees, and tech assure fees. The FCC is also empowered to identify and prohibit any other similar fees that obscure the true cost of service, thereby protecting consumers from hidden charges. For introductory or time-limited pricing, providers must clearly disclose the duration of the special rate and the price that will apply afterward, both on bills and in promotional content. The regulations will also specify certain charges, such as taxes or equipment fees, that are not required to be included in the aggregate price. This comprehensive approach seeks to eliminate hidden costs and improve overall pricing transparency for broadband consumers.