FCC delays Verizon bid for spectrum from cable firms

The Federal Communications Commission delayed its review of Verizon’s $3.6 billion bid for airwaves from cable companies, saying the investigation is being held back because the companies were late in submitting requested paperwork.

The delay, which appeared procedural, will stop what is known as an informal 180-days “shot clock” by three weeks, the FCC said in an order. On April 30, the companies told the FCC it would make documents searchable to the public, which would appease critics of the deal who have asked for access to corporate documents. “Assuming the adequacy of the current productions in response to the requests, we do not anticipate further extension of the 180-day period,” the FCC sad in its order.