H.R. 2784: Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act of 2025, aims to amend existing federal law regarding the destruction of communication systems, specifically focusing on broadband internet access. The key provisions of the bill are as follows:

Prohibition on Destruction of Broadband Internet Access Service

The bill seeks to expand the definition and protections for broadband internet access service under Section 1362 of Title 18 of the United States Code. The proposed changes include:

• Adding specific references to “facilities used to provide broadband internet access service” to ensure that such facilities are included in protections against destruction.
• Broadening the scope of the law to apply not only to communication systems that are operated or controlled by the U.S. government but also to those controlled by any person or entity.
• Removing outdated provisions related to military or civil defense functions, thereby allowing for a clearer focus on broadband services.

Definition of Broadband Internet Access Service

The bill proposes a detailed definition of “broadband internet access service” as follows:

• It is defined as a mass-market retail service that provides the capability to send and receive data over the internet from virtually all internet endpoints.
• It excludes older dial-up internet access services, emphasizing modern broadband technologies.
• It includes any service that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recognizes as a functional equivalent of this service.

By implementing these changes, the bill seeks to enhance the legal frameworks protecting broadband infrastructure, thus aiming to deter its theft or destruction. This legislation highlights the importance of maintaining robust internet services as a critical part of modern communication systems.

Relevant Companies

• CMCSA - Comcast: As a major provider of broadband services, Comcast may need to enhance security measures to protect their infrastructure.
• T - AT&T: AT&T could face increased compliance requirements regarding the protection of its broadband facilities.
• VZ - Verizon: Verizon may need to adapt its operations to align with new legal protections for broadband services.