Charter says proposed FCC set-top rules would force it to charge modem fees

Charter Communications says a provision buried deep within the Federal Communications Commission’s proposed set-top regulation would, if adopted, require it to charge a modem fee. “We’re the only major broadband provider that doesn’t charge this fee, because we view modems as part of providing a superior broadband service, and it makes us a stronger competitor by allowing us to offer better deals to our subscribers,” Charter said.

“Deep within” the FCC’s “Unlock the Box” proposal, the company added, “is a provision that has the potential to affect millions of consumers, requiring all internet providers to charge a modem rental fee and include it as a distinct line item in their customers’ bills, even if that company (like Charter) doesn’t currently charge a modem fee.” The blog post followed an ex parte filing rendered earlier by Charter, in which it said the FCC proposal is in direct conflict with Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks merger conditions that require it to supply free modems.