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New York's Affordable Broadband Act (ABA), originally enacted in April 2021, mandates that internet service providers (ISPs) with over 20,000 subscribers offer discounted broadband plans to low-income households. These plans are priced at $15 per month for 25 Mbps download speeds and $20 per month for 200 Mbps, inclusive of recurring taxes and equipment rental fees, with annual price increases capped at 2%. After facing legal challenges from industry groups, the law was upheld by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in April 2024, and the Supreme Court declined to review the case in December 2024. The ABA officially took effect on January 15, 2025. However, reports indicate that enforcement has been inconsistent, with some ISPs not fully complying until prompted by investigative journalism efforts. Additionally, the expiration of the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in mid-2024 has heightened the importance of state-level initiatives like New York's ABA to ensure affordable internet access for low-income residents.

How New York’s $15 Broadband Plan Looks to Help Low-Income Consumers - CNET