CFA: FCC Needs Network Reality Rules

The Consumer Federation of America told the Federal Communications Commission that its new network neutrality rules need to reflect the "reality" of the 21st century digital economy, which means using its authority to promote broadband deployment under Sec 706 of the Communications Act to maintain the virtuous cycle of innovation and investment.

CFA Director of Research Mark Cooper says that rules are needed because "if [communications owners] are allowed to pursue their interests in an unfettered, unregulated manner, there is no doubt that they will undermine the virtuous cycle." While many groups are calling for Title II, Cooper says the FCC should begin by using its authority under Sec. 706, as FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler has proposed.