SUMMARY

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) to ensure consumers get quick and easy access to the information they want and need to compare broadband plans from broadband labels. These proposed changes eliminate certain broadband label burdens on providers while sustaining the benefit to consumers. Commissioner Trusty stated the FCC “will carefully weigh the competing viewpoints.” After this process, we expect the FCC to adopt the changes. 

The Commission has proposed eliminating the following requirements for providers: 

1. Read the label to consumers over the phone
2. Itemize state and local passthrough fees that vary by location
3. Provide information about the now-concluded Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
4. Display labels in customer account portals
5. Make labels available in machine readable format
6. Archive labels for at least two years after a service is no longer offered to new customers

Congress directed the Commission in 2021 to require broadband providers to display labels to help consumers make informed decisions when choosing a broadband plan. The Commission adopted detailed rules in 2022 and providers were required to display a label for each of their standalone broadband service plans beginning in 2024.

THIS MAY APPLY TO YOU IF…

• You are a carrier subject to broadband labels reporting.

ACTION ITEMS & TIMELINE

• The FCC will indicate the starting point for the new labels in the final Order.