09/14/2017

ACA Supports Restoration of a Light-Touch Open Internet Regulatory Framework

Treating broadband Internet service providers (ISPs) as common carriers under Title II of the Communications Act was a classic case of government overreach, unnecessary as a matter of economics, incorrect as a matter of law and harmful to ISPs. It was especially harmful to smaller ISPs, their customers and communities because the overhang of 1930's utility-style regulation increased smaller ISPs' costs while decreasing their incentive and ability to invest in broadband Internet infrastructure and offer innovative or beneficial new features and services to consumers, according to the American Cable Association.

ACA's well-considered views came in reply comments related to FCC proposals that would restore the light-touch regulation of ISPs that existed for nearly two decades, covering a period characterized by phenomenal growth in network infrastructure investment and in the spread of innovative online services across fixed and mobile platforms.

"The FCC has before it copious record evidence supporting action on its lead proposal to roll-back the application of Title II regulation and restore its light-touch regulatory approach under Title I, and it should proceed immediately to ensure that ISPs, smaller ones especially, have the necessary incentives to invest in critical Internet infrastructure," ACA President and CEO Matthew M. Polka said. Read more