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Congress·In Committee·11 months ago

Broadband Protection: Penalties for Damaging Internet Infrastructure

Also known as: Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act of 2025

Legislative Progress

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House
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President

Key Points

  • Congress is considering a new law that would make it a federal crime to intentionally damage or destroy broadband internet equipment. Currently, federal law mainly protects communication lines used by the government or military, but this change would protect the internet lines used by everyone.
  • This policy addresses the rising problem of people stealing or breaking internet infrastructure, like copper wires or fiber optic cables. When these parts are damaged, it can cause major outages that prevent people from working, attending school, or calling for help during emergencies.
  • If passed, the law would apply to any broadband service, whether it is owned by the government or a private company. This gives federal investigators more authority to track down and punish people who interfere with the country's internet connections.

Milestones

2 milestones2 actions
Apr 9, 2025House

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Apr 9, 2025

Introduced in House

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act of 2025

Bill NumberHR 2784
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionReferred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(18)
D: 9R: 9

Analysis generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, this should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always verify information with official government sources.