CCIA Applauds FCC’s Light-Touch Approach to
Broadband
May 06, 2010 03:59 PM Eastern Daylight Time
WASHINGTON--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--The FCC took steps today toward clarifying its authority to
protect open Internet access. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski took a middle ground approach to narrowly
reclassify the transmission component of broadband Internet access as a telecommunications service. Under this
moderate “third way,” the FCC would excuse Internet Access Providers (IAPs) from price regulation, wholesale
unbundling and other traditional mandates.
Based on actions by the FCC under the Bush administration, Genachowski was left with two unappealing choices
following a recent court decision in the Comcast case. Either the FCC could continue trying to rely on Title I of the
Communications Act to preserve the open Internet or rely on full Title II common carrier provisions that give the
Commission authority over telecommunications services.
The Computer & Communications Industry Association represents a diverse array of communications and tech
companies that all have an interest in the FCC’s handling of broadband Internet access. The following comments can
be attributed to Ed Black, CCIA President & CEO:
“The previous administration tried to lump enhanced data information services and communications services together.
It’s becoming clear to more people that that was the wrong approach and the FCC’s new direction would correct
that. Genachowski’s hybrid approach recognizes the distinction between applications, online data services and media
content on the one hand, and essential underlying telecommunications transport services on the other.
“By acknowledging that Title II of the (Communications) Act governs interstate telecommunications, including
broadband transmission services sold as Internet access, this move wisely correct a previous misstep and would
keep the FCC on solid legal ground to maintain nondiscriminatory access to an open Internet. It will not limit what
info