Chairman Pai's Response Regarding USTelecom Forbearance Petition

On Oct 23, 2018, Rep Jared Huffman (D-CA) wrote to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai regarding a forbearance petition filed on May 4 with the FCC by USTelecom. [USTelecom was seeking forbearance from the Communications Act's resale and unbundled network element requirements.] "The letters that my constituents submitted to the FCC regarding the petition illustrate the importance of alternative competitive providers in the telecommunications marketplace," Rep Huffman wrote. "I ask that their comments be carefully considered as you review the petition."

On Nov 26, Chairman Pai responded saying, "The comment cycle on the matter has closed, and Commission staff are now carefully reviewing the record in the proceeding....Please be assured that we will take into consideration the issues and concerns presented by all stakeholders—including those of your constituents—as the Commission deliberates on the appropriate course of action."