News -- October 2, 2019
INCOMPAS Files FCC Reply Comments on MTE Proceeding: “Competition, not Cable, Should Control the Condo”
WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 2, 2019) – INCOMPAS, the internet and competitive networks association, is pushing back against claims made by large cable companies and big landlords that monopoly broadband is good for Americans living in apartment buildings, condo complexes and other multiple tenant environments (MTEs).
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a proceeding to spur broadband deployment and bring more competition to Americans living in MTEs— who make up an astounding 30 percent of the population. In its reply comments filed at the FCC, INCOMPAS said arguments that block competition and protect sweetheart deals would lock in higher prices, slower speeds and poor customer service.
To read a copy of the reply comment, please click here.
In addition to the filing, Chip Pickering, CEO of INCOMPAS, released the following statement:
“Ending broadband monopolies at apartments and condos will create a deployment boom and fiber network growth.
“Large cable companies and big landlords seeking to preserve sweetheart deals have argued that monopolies work, and a duopoly future would be sufficient. But their duopoly dreams are a nightmare for consumers and disconnected from bipartisan deployment policy. Competition from multiple providers is the only true driver for building new networks, faster speeds and lower prices.
“Just look to the wireless marketplace, where this Administration, with bipartisan support, is working to find creative solutions to keep four major providers in the marketplace while ensuring network support is available to a variety of smaller local providers via wholesale. The writing on the wall is clear, and it’s long past time to unlock the front door of the condo to competition.”
About INCOMPAS
INCOMPAS, the internet and competitive networks association, is the leading trade group advocating for competition policy across all networks. INCOMPAS represents Internet, streaming, communications and technology companies large and small, advocating for laws and policies that promote competition, innovation and economic development. Learn more at www.incompas.org or follow us on Twitter: @INCOMPAS @ChipPickering