Accessibility Needs Take Center Stage in FCC’s Customer Service Inquiry
Telecom providers say new mandates are unnecessary, point to market-driven solutions.

Telecom providers say new mandates are unnecessary, point to market-driven solutions.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2024 – Renewed scrutiny of telecommunications customer service by the Federal Communications Commission has ignited debate over how, or if, industry practices should be regulated to protect consumers.
While nearly 40 consumer advocates and organizations like the National Association of the Deaf called for stronger protections to address customer service gaps, industry giants like USTelecom and NTCA – the Rural Broadband Association argued that competition alone drives sufficient accountability.
The FCC inquiry, initiated by a narrow 3-2 vote in October, sought to gather public input on addressing widespread consumer service issues across the broadband, cable, satellite TV, and phone industries. Key concerns included difficulties with service cancellations, lengthy wait times, unexpected fees, and unexplained service outages.
During nomination hearing, Trusty pledges to protect universal service while advancing next-gen connectivity.
Schmidt urged rebuilding domestic semiconductor manufacturing
This combination casts doubt on the government's ability to be truly 'technology neutral'.
Her nomination will now go to the full Senate.