Federal Communications Commission Initiates Investigation Regarding Limitations on Broadband Data Usage
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken a significant step forward in addressing consumer concerns about data caps, announcing an official inquiry into the issue. The move comes after receiving nearly 3,000 comments from consumers about broadband provider-imposed data caps.
In a notice of inquiry, the FCC is seeking public comments on data caps, their impact on consumers, and competition. The commission will explore trends in consumer data usage, the impact of data caps on consumers, how subscribers are informed about caps, the impact of data caps on competition, and the FCC's legal authority to take action.
One of the stories shared by a consumer is from a disabled individual from Iowa. They mentioned that their internet bill increased from $20 to $50 and they now have a data cap of 1.25tb after the ACP plan expired, forcing them to rely on their phone's hotspot and public Wi-Fi. Another consumer from New Mexico shared that the provider's data cap is too low for their family and requires them to purchase the fastest internet speed offered.
A family of six from Arizona mentioned that they are forced to use their provider since it's the only one available in their area and are forced to pay for unlimited internet or face penalties for using more data. Another consumer from Michigan provides telemedicine services with video for low-income patients and has no other high-speed provider in their area that can provide reliable internet. One consumer from Arkansas stated that they have to unplug their modem to prevent going over their data cap and take their kids to find public wifi to complete their school work.
The inquiry was initiated by FCC Chair, Jessica Rosenworcel, who stated that data caps can cut off small businesses from their customers, slap fees on low-income families, and prevent people with disabilities from using necessary communication tools. Republican commissioner Brendan Carr, however, issued a dissenting statement, stating that the inquiry is a step towards imposing price controls on the internet and the FCC lacks the statutory authority to regulate prices.
Consumers can read these and other stories and submit their own comments on the FCC's portal. All comments can be submitted and accessed by the public at fcc.gov/ecfs (Docket No. 23-199). Carr argues that the FCC's decision to reinstate utility-style, Title II controls on the Internet promises to forbear from all forms of price controls but is now starting to directly regulate rates with this inquiry.
The FCC has posted hundreds of consumer stories about the impact of data caps on their lives, and the commission encourages all consumers to share their experiences and opinions on the matter. The inquiry aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of data caps and their impact on consumers and competition, paving the way for potential future action from the FCC.
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