Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act of 2025

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.

Impact Analysis

Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.