Bulk Billing
Policymakers must act to preserve bulk billing—a proven tool for expanding internet access and affordability in rental housing.
What Is Bulk Billing?
At its core, bulk billing is a pro-consumer arrangement between internet service providers (ISPs) and rental housing operators that allows property owners to purchase broadband service in bulk for an entire community. This means residents get faster, more reliable internet, often at significantly lower costs.
In fact, many renters save up to 50% compared to retail rates.
This model is especially important for affordable, senior, and student housing, where barriers like credit checks, deposits, and lack of infrastructure can keep residents offline. Bulk billing ensures that internet access is always-on, seamless, and ready the moment a renter moves in.
The Challenge
But recently, state and local legislation has been introduced that would ban or restrict bulk billing, based on a misunderstanding of how it works. These efforts could raise prices, limit provider options, and worsen the digital divide, especially in historically underserved communities.
RETTC’s Solution
RETTC is working to protect this model by educating policymakers, empowering industry advocates, and promoting the truth.
Bulk billing doesn’t reduce choice or drive up prices—it delivers better, more affordable internet to the people who need it most.
Members Only: Bulk Billing Toolkit
As policymakers across the country consider legislation that could restrict or ban bulk billing agreements, RETTC has developed a comprehensive toolkit to help you speak up and set the record straight.
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