Public interest group urges FCC to reclassify broadband

Public Knowledge told the Federal Communications Commission it should reclassify broadband Internet services to erase any uncertainty over the agency's authority to oversee Internet service providers.

Public Knowledge said in public comments filed to the FCC that a slew of policies the agency is working on are in jeopardy as fresh doubts have emerged whether the commission even has the jurisdiction to implement rules over broadband.

"Without clear legal authority, the commission might find itself unable to respond to the needs of public safety, unable to protect privacy, and incapable of collecting needed information to ensure that the Internet remains affordable, open and competitive," said Harold Feld, legal director for Public Knowledge.