The FCC extended the reply comment deadline time in the record for “Improving Competitive Broadband Access to Multiple Tenant Environments (MTEs).” Public reply comments are now due by November 19.
The FCC wanted to refresh its record in this proceeding examining competitive access to broadband in apartment and office buildings. “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,” said then-FCC Acting Chair Jessica Rosenworcel in September.
The Wireline Competition Bureau is seeking comment on three main issues related to broadband deployment in 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 input on exclusive wiring arrangements and whether such arrangements do not preclude access to new entrants or inhibit choice for tenants. The agency also wants public insights on whether exclusive marketing arrangements create confusion and lower choices for tenants.
The FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau granted the request for more time from NCTA – The Internet & Television Association (formerly the National Cable & Telecommunications Association). It’s a trade association for the U.S. broadband and pay television industries.
NCTA asked for a 30-day extension, saying the questions posed in the proceeding “raised complex and important issues regarding broadband services in MTEs and how best to foster competition in that market.” It argued that due to the ‘‘volume and complexity of the record’’ more time is needed to review and respond. No one opposed NCTA’s request, according to the Commission.
However, the bureau said in its decision that a 30-day extension “would unduly delay Commission consideration of important issues.” It settled on 15 days.
Federal Register publication triggered notification of the new reply comment date. File reply comments to FCC GN Docket No. 17–142.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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