Expert Opinion
To Fix the Digital Divide, The Great Can’t Be the Enemy of the Good
Given all of its successes, reauthorizing the ACP should be a no-brainer.
ACP
The Affordable Connectivity Program was a $14.2 billion program that provided subsidized broadband connections of $30/month, and $75/month for Tribal households. However, the program ended in June 2024 after Congress stopped its funding.
Expert Opinion
To Withstand Emergencies Like Helene, Broadband Policies Need to Last
Going forward, we could mitigate risks by designing our networks with resiliency in mind.
Section 230
Former Pai Aide: USF ‘Top Issue’ Post-Election
Legal challenges put USF and FCC powers at risk.
Digital Inclusion
Survey: Rising Internet Bills Add to Consumer Frustration Amid Inflation
Despite industry claims of affordable broadband, consumers report financial strain and show support for mandated price caps.
OTI
Consumer Groups: ‘Device Unlocking Boosts Wireless Competition’
Eighteen consumer groups pushed the FCC to adopt a uniform 60-day phone unlocking standard.
Affordability
New Study Proposes Funding Reforms for ACP
The Affordable Connectivity Program should change the income-eligibility threshold to 135% of the federal poverty line, says report.
Election 2024
Analysts Ponder Telecom Policy Moves Under Harris or Trump
The Nov. 5 election could bring significant changes to the FCC
Fiber
Verizon Submits $20 Billion Frontier Merger for FCC Approval
Verizon argues minimal competitive overlap, but regulators will examine the impact.
ACP
Harris-Walz Urge Congress to Restore Affordable Connectivity Program
The proposal also includes support for 'right to repair' measures designed to appeal to farmers.
Mobile
Black Orgs Back Rosenworcel on Uniform Phone Unlocking Proposal
Groups argue that unlocking rules will promote digital equity.
Section 706
NCTA: Inflation Far Outpacing Retail Price of Broadband
Broadband has become more affordable, even as other costs have risen
Digital Inclusion
ISPs’ Low-Cost Plans Reach 95% of New York Homes: Report
Citing efforts by Charter, Altice and Verizon, New York tackles broadband affordability for millions of low-income residents.
Benton
Policy Experts Note Importance of FCC Regulatory Authority
Panel discussed USF, ACP, and Net Neutrality
Ziply
Oregon Ballot Measure Targets Big ISPs, Others to Fund $1,600 Annual Payment to State Residents
Measure 118 intends to send cash to all Oregon residents, regardless of income.
Broadband Mapping and Data
Data, Competition and Affordability Key to Expanding Broadband
Key recent developments include FCC fines on nine ISP, the annual 706 Report and a pending deadline for the FCC's broadband labels program.
USF
Rep. Latta: USF Working Group Still not in Agreement After Fifth Circuit Ruling
The group has been working to modernize the fund for more than a year.
