Cable Operators Agree It Is Time to Reform USF

In comments filed at the Federal Communications Commission, the National Cable & Telecommunications Association supports reforming the Universal Service Fund to target broadband, but also wants it to better target areas with unsubsidized competition while controlling the size of the fund. In its comments, NCTA supports the FCC's goal of universal broadband service at 4 mbps downstream, 1 mbps upstream as one that "appropriately balances the goal of achieving universal access with the political and financial reality that continued growth in the burden the fund places on consumers will jeopardize public support for their entire program."

The American Cable Association (ACA) also gave a shout-out for reform and controlling the size, but asked that the high-cost fund not be entirely eliminated where smaller operators are concerned.