FCC Chmn. Powell expressed strong optimism for future of broadban...
FCC Chmn. Powell expressed strong optimism for future of broadband and his agency’s role in its deployment. Speaking at Precursor Group conference Wed., Powell said Commission was moving forward expeditiously with proceedings defining broadband regulatory rules. “I personally believe…
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a year from now, if things go well, we will have made a dramatic contribution to clarifying the understanding of the regulatory environment surrounding broadband,” he told audience of 250. He said it was a given that broadband would be deployed universally and only question was when. Powell also said Commission needed to overhaul policy on spectrum, saying there were “severe cracks in the existing regulatory structure because it just doesn’t move fast enough and doesn’t move in some cases fair enough to make sure spectrum moves to its highest and most efficient uses.” Powell said agency had different powers to protect consumer interests in case of bankruptcy, depending on which platform Internet was delivered on. He cited example of Excite@Home in which he wrote letter to judge requesting that consideration be given to consumers who were losing their service. In case of DSL- provided Internet service, company must seek permission from FCC to shut down. Powell reiterated his belief in “facilities-based” competition, saying no company should have to or would “enjoy building their own gallows” by opening their facilities to others.