Avelar: Internet Services Should be Equitable

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. — State Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, is working to make internet access more affordable with new legislation slashing cable and video provider charges for internet service customers.

“Internet services should be affordable and accessible for all. That’s why I’m working to regulate the fees charged by cable and video providers to customers who rent modems and routers, which is extremely important as it will protect consumers from excessive payments, plus ensure transparency in billing practices,” said Avelar. “By regulating these costs, this legislation grants us a significant opportunity to make internet services more affordable and accessible to residents across Illinois.”

Avelar introduced House Bill 4732, which would prohibit cable and video providers from charging customers for modems and routers — whether rented together or separately — when the customer has paid an amount surmounting the total cost of that service. Plus, a cable and video provider must provide notice detailing the discontinuation of rental charges to the customer in each billing statement.