FCC To End Biden-Era Rule That... Note
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FCC To End Biden-Era Rule That Forces ISPs To List All Their Fees

The FCC is proposing to roll back broadband labeling rules that require internet service providers to itemize all passthrough fees. Under the new proposal, ISPs could instead list a single "up to" amount for location-based charges. This change would allow providers to aggregate various fees, including those from local governments and utility pole owners, into a single sum. Furthermore, ISPs would be permitted to link to pricing labels rather than display them prominently on ordering pages and account portals. The proposal also eliminates the requirement for machine-readable pricing files, making data less accessible for research. Additionally, ISPs will no longer need to provide complete price label information over the phone, instead summarizing key details. These changes are intended to reduce complexity for ISPs, who have previously complained about the burden of itemizing fees. Consumer advocacy groups have expressed concerns that these changes will obscure actual costs and hinder affordability research. The FCC is scheduled to vote on this order later this month, with the changes taking effect shortly after. Another planned change will remove the requirement for ISPs to archive service plan labels for two years after discontinuation.