Today:  ITTA and USTelecom Ask FCC To Modernize Regulations Regarding BDS in Rural Areas,  New Vermont Law to Enhance State Telecommunications Plan Survey

ITTA and USTelecom Ask FCC To Modernize Regulations Regarding BDS in Rural Areas

ITTA and USTelecom jointly filed a Petition for Rulemaking at the FCC requesting that model-based rate-of-return carriers be permitted to opt into existing price cap regulation for their provision of BDS, subject to certain conditions.  Based on the premise that the legacy BDS regulations that currently apply to many rural telcos impose unnecessary costs and prevent these carriers from offering beneficial rates, terms, and conditions to their customers, the proposed new, streamlined regulatory paradigm will better promote competition by taking further steps towards implementing incentive-based “price cap” regulation.  This relief, in turn, will promote the investment necessary to meet the modern communications needs of American businesses and other enterprises operating in rural America.  The Petition also addresses specific implementation issues, such as going-in rates, including a one-time lifting of the category relationship freeze, and transition mechanisms. 

Genevieve Morelli, President, ITTA:  “Today’s petition kicks off a process that will ultimately benefit competition, customers, and carriers alike.  The companies seeking the regulatory relief proposed by the petition already have committed to significant broadband investment in rural America   All they ask in return is for the flexibility to meet the needs of their business and institutional customers.”

 Jonathan Spalter, President and CEO, USTelecom:  "Rural broadband providers are committed to connecting their customers with the best service at the lowest prices. This Petition will streamline regulations and ensure businesses operating in rural America have access to modern broadband infrastructure. Swift action on this petition will promote competition, benefit communities and connect more customers.”

See Press Release here and full text of the Petition here.            

Vermont State Telecommunications Plan Survey

The Governor signed into law a bill to "enhance the survey and assessment requirements necessary for preparation of the State Telecommunications Plan" (HB 347).  The law calls for one or more surveys of residents and businesses with respect to specific sectors in Vermont.  These include the educational; health care and human services; public safety; and workforce training and development sectors. 

The Public Service Board is authorized to take any action necessary to enable the State of Vermont and telecommunications companies offering service in Vermont to participate in the federal Lifeline program administered by the FCC and also the Vermont Lifeline program.

 Remember Memorial Day 2017, Monday, May 29th

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The Regulatory Mix, TMI’s daily blog of telecom related regulatory activities, is a snapshot of PUC, FCC, legislative, and occasionally court issues that our regulatory monitoring team uncovers each day. Depending on their significance, some items may be the subject of a TMI Briefing.