Lujan, Booker Bow Bill to Restrict ISPs' Use of Broadband Data Caps
Senate Communications Subcommittee Chairman Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M., and Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., filed the Uncap America Act Thursday in a bid to “prohibit predatory data caps” on U.S. broadband services by restricting ISPs to impose limits only for “reasonable”…
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network management purposes. The measure would direct the FCC to promulgate rules defining when a data cap is considered to be tailored for network management and give the commission enforcement authority when ISPs violate those conditions. “As internet usage continues to be a necessity for work, education, and health care, no family should have to worry about extra fees and costs because of unnecessary limits on their data,” Lujan said. “Internet access is a basic necessity and has been increasingly important throughout the coronavirus pandemic,” Booker said: “Unfortunately, many internet providers have imposed predatory data caps, making it difficult for many vulnerable families to access high-speed internet.” Public Knowledge Senior Policy Counsel Jenna Leventoff praised Lujan and Booker for working to eliminate “this baseless price gouging.” The “bill will ensure that ISPs are not allowed to include frivolous data caps at the expense of consumers,” said Consumer Reports Senior Policy Counsel Jonathan Schwantes. “Americans need fast, reliable and affordable internet connections that are free from the burden of data caps that chill internet use and make it more expensive.” Incompas also backs the legislation.