FBA Opposes Lower FCC Broadband Speed Benchmarks
FBA Urges FCC to Set Higher Broadband Standards as Fiber Expands Nationwide
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2025 — The Fiber Broadband Association is urging the Federal Communications Commission to keep pushing for gigabit symmetric broadband standards, citing rapid expansion of fiber networks and growing consumer demand for higher speeds.
In comments filed last Monday in response to the FCC’s 19th Section 706 Notice of Inquiry, the trade group said the FCC should continue high-cost support programs in areas where deployment would not otherwise be economically feasible, while also pursuing permitting reforms to cut state and local barriers.
“Access to gigabit symmetric networks will be the norm,” CEO Gary Bolton wrote, calling broadband today both “dynamic” and “thriving.” The group pointed to heavy private-sector investment, nearly $95 billion in 2023 alone and said competition is driving per-megabit prices down.
Member discussion