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Follow on Google News | ACA President & CEO Matthew M. Polka Troubled By Chairman Genachowski’s Plan For Reforming USFThe FCC Chairman’s plan locks in a sole-source contract worth billions of dollars for over 10 years to a handful of incumbent large telecom companies to deploy broadband at maximum speeds that are below average.
“Because any plan to reform the universal service regime will have a significant impact on consumers and competition in the broadband marketplace for the next 20 years, it must be forward looking, recognizing and taking advantage of today’s competitive marketplace and the hundreds of broadband providers across the country, including many offering a robust service over cable television infrastructure that is a preferred choice by most consumers. Unfortunately, the Chairman’s plan does not achieve this critical objective. “Instead, the Chairman’s plan locks in a sole-source contract worth billions of dollars for over 10 years to a handful of incumbent large telecom companies to deploy broadband at maximum speeds that are below average. It favors one small group of providers over others to the disadvantage of consumers. By excluding thousands of broadband providers willing, able, and eager to compete to provide service to consumers living in rural areas where government support is provided, it will deprive these consumers of receiving the best possible service at the lowest possible price. “In the weeks ahead, ACA will continue to work with the FCC, and hopes to see the needed fixes in the final plan.” About the American Cable Association: # # # ACA supports independent cable operators and their customers by promoting a legislative and regulatory environment that allows for a fair and competive marketplace and by providing the tools and information our members need to compete effectively End
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