FCC Considering Landmark Rule-making for PCOs

Special Update from the ICTA

As you read this, the FCC is in final consideration of a rule-making which will significantly influence PCO use of exclusive contracts, franchised cable's abuse of perpetual contracts, the anti-competitive nature of state mandatory access statutes, and changes to the FCC MDU inside wiring rules.

It is anticipated that the five FCC Commissioners will vote before the end of July determining:

1. if exclusive contracts will be allowed in the future
2. if perpetual contracts will be subject to MDU owner "fresh look"
3. how the inside wiring rules will be improved, making it easier for PCOs to work with MDU owners to encourage change of service from the incumbent provider to PCO competition. 

This rulemaking has been in the FCC consideration process since 1997.

"This rulemaking has been ICTA's highest priority.  If MDUs and PCOs win, it will be a major victory for MDU residents that want better telecommunications products, including DBS and high-speed data services," said Bryan Rader, President of the Association.  "We are pulling out all the stops because, as our industry is rapidly changing, these issues will have a major influence on our future success."

As they are available, Private & Wireless Broadband will keep our readers informed and provide complete details.