The FCC is looking for more public input in a proceeding reviewing competitive access to broadband in apartment and office buildings. The new call for comments aims to better understand how the agency can promote more competition, consumer choice, and lower prices for Americans living and working in these buildings.
“Across the country throughout the pandemic, the need for more and better broadband access has never been clearer,” said Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “With more than one-third of the U.S. population living in condos and apartment buildings, it’s time to take a fresh look at how exclusive agreements between carriers and building owners could lock out broadband competition and consumer choice.”
She added she looks forward to reviewing the record. The new inquiry will lay the groundwork for the agency to potentially impose new rules.
The Wireline Competition Bureau seeks comment on three main issues related to broadband deployment in Multiple Tenant Environment (MTE) buildings. The first focuses on revenue sharing agreements between MTE owners and service providers, and whether such arrangements inhibit entry by competitive providers or affect the price and quality of service options for consumers.
Second, the bureau asks for public input on exclusive wiring arrangements and whether such arrangements do not preclude access to new entrants or inhibit choice for tenants. The agency also seeks comment on whether exclusive marketing arrangements create confusion and lower choices for tenants.
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