Benton Institute Welcomes Investigation into Broadband Data Caps

The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society supports the FCC’s inquiry into data caps which limit the amount of access consumers have to data before they are charged surplus fees or cut off from service. There is scant evidence that such caps are necessary and their consequences can be especially disastrous for vulnerable populations. Data caps are particularly problematic for low-income individuals who may find themselves facing unexpectedly large fees at the end of the month as a result of surpassing a data cap. Data caps can create insurmountable barriers for low-income consumers trying to access life-changing services online, such as educational tools. Data caps can also be particularly debilitating for the deaf and hard-of-hearing consumers who rely on Video Relay Service (VRS) in order to communicate. Data caps can also limit access to telehealth services which otherwise reduce medical costs through video technology, support real-time treatment by first responders through the use of wireless devices, and enhance senior wellness and preventative care through telemedicine and remote in-home monitoring. In general, data caps are not popular with consumers, nor are they an effective means of managing network congestion. The Benton Institute hopes Chairwoman’s colleagues move swiftly to launch this proceeding.