CHAPTER 8-L. PROHIBITED WI-FI HOTSPOT BLOCKING

§844.74. Legislative findings

            A. The legislature finds that Wi-Fi is a technology that enables low-power electronic devices, such as laptop computers, tablets, video game consoles, and smartphones, to connect to the Internet and to each other through wireless network access points. Such "access points" include a Wi-Fi router and also mobile devices that can serve as a wireless access point, known as a "hotspot".

            B. The legislature concurs with statements from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that the "Internet is a vital platform for economic growth, innovation, competition, and free expression. Wi-Fi is an essential access ramp to that platform. Wi-Fi networks have proliferated in places accessible to the public, such as restaurants, coffee shops, malls, train stations, hotels, airports, convention centers, and parks. Consumers also can establish their own Wi-Fi networks by using FCC-authorized mobile hotspots and their wireless data plans to connect Wi-Fi enabled devices to the Internet. The growing use of technologies that unlawfully block consumers from creating their own Wi-Fi networks via their personal hotspots unjustifiably prevents consumers from enjoying services they have paid for and stymies the convenience and innovation associated with Wi-Fi Internet access."

            C. The legislature finds that consumers who purchase cellular data plans should be able to use them without fear that their personal Internet connection will be unlawfully blocked by others, including blocking at locations such as conference centers, hotels, and trade shows.

            D. The legislature further finds that for these reasons it is an appropriate exercise of the police power of the state to take action to prevent such unlawful activity.

            Acts 2016, No. 532, §1.