Broadband policy debate continues in FCC comments
June 9, 2009
Monday's deadline for comments to the Federal Communications Commission on the creation of a national broadband plan drew scores of filings from various industry and consumer groups, continuing a debate over how to provide greater access to high speed internet.
Consumer advocacy groups such as the nonprofit think tank Free Press argued for greater competition in broadband delivery. Free Press also urged the FCC to revisit its policies on telecommunications and to more closely regulate the broadband internet and wireless markets.
Industry associations also called for more competition, but through less regulation.
CTIA, the wireless association, said in its filing that the FCC should not attempt to treat wireless networks asbroadband carriers, although close to 80 percent of wireless phones are capable of accessing high speed internet.
Individual companies such as AT&T and Comcast put out proposals to increase the adoption of broadband by consumers through education and public outreach.
Broadband carrier Comcast noted that broadband access has expanded rapidly in the past 10 years, with fiber lines penetrating most areas to be available to over 90 percent of households.
But some consumer advocates, including the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council , argued for better affordability and treating broadband as a community resource for expanding educational and economic opportunities.
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