Cable Operators Push for Codified Overlashing Rules

Cable operators want to make sure that the Federal Communications Commission makes rules allowing "overlashing" part of its overall plan to speed the deployment of broadband to all Americans. That is the practice of piggybacking new plant on utility poles (say fiber) on existing plant (fiber) that has already been approved by the pole owner.

In comments to the FCC on its proposal to accellerate wireline broadband deployment, including by removing barriers, by codifying its precedent of allowing overlashing without having to ask permission, the American Cable Association says one of those barriers is utilities charging for piggybacking on existing plant or making its members jump through various hoops. "For decades, the Commission has determined that overlashing does not require a pole attachment application or a utility’s permission or consent, and that overlashing consistent with generally accepted engineering practices should not incur any additional charge," says ACA. But it says its members' experience has been that "some utilities require full attachment applications or impose other requirements that delay or stymie overlashing entirely." It says clear overlashing rules would help spur broadband deployment.