Sen Wyden's prospects for the 177th Congress: Privacy, Section 230, and Broadband
In an interview with Politico, Sen Ron Wyden (D-OR) describe his plans for the 117th Congress. Some highlights:
January 2021
National Urban League Unveils New Framework To Bridge Digital Divide
The National Urban League unveiled the framework of a comprehensive agenda for leveraging the tools of the information economy to create a more equitable and inclusive society. The Lewis Latimer Plan for Digital Equity and Inclusion would:
Massachusetts State Reps try to ban Comcast data cap and price hikes until pandemic is over
In response to Comcast imposing a data cap on Massachusetts residents, state lawmakers have proposed a ban on data caps, new fees, and price increases on home-Internet services for the duration of the pandemic. The legislation was filed on Jan 26 by Democratic state representatives Andy Vargas and Dave Rogers.
FCC Has Implemented the Lifeline National Verifier but Should Improve Consumer Awareness and Experience
As of June 2020, the Federal Communications Commission required consumers nationwide to use the Lifeline National Verifier (Verifier), a centralized process and data system, to check their eligibility for Lifeline, the FCC program that provides discounts on phone and internet service for low-income Americans. The FCC created the Verifier with the stated goals of reducing fraud and costs and improving the consumer experience. But the FCC hasn't made people aware of the Verifier, or provided information tribal governments need to help people use it.
Comcast’s Profit Rises on Broadband-Business Strength
Comcast's 4th-quarter profits rose, boosted by continued growth at its broadband business. The company added 538,000 new subscribers during the quarter. While 2020 was a banner year for Comcast's broadband results, executives on the earnings call noted that it was somewhat of anomaly due to the pandemic.
For next steps on telehealth, look to the states (HealthcareITNews)
Submitted by benton on Thu, 01/28/2021 - 13:42The Federal Communications Commission will host the discussion to provide an opportunity for FCC staff and interested parties to examine proposed actions the FCC should take to establish the program. The FCC is currently receiving comments regarding the program, and this roundtable will provide an additional opportunity to determine the best approach to leverage the funding to help close the digital divide.
FCC Announces Roundtable on Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced that she will convene a virtual roundtable discussion on Feb 12, 2021 to gather public input on how to structure the new Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. The roundtable will allow interested parties an opportunity to share ideas on the important public policy and program administration decisions that will shape the FCC’s approach to establishing the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. The FCC is currently gathering comments on the program in response to a request for comment issued Jan 4, 2021.