FCC’s Rules to Prevent ‘Digital Discrimination’ Draw Skepticism From Industry

The telecommunications industry says the FCC’s new rules could have ‘a negative impact’ on broadband providers and their customers.

Signage at the headquarters of the Federal Communications Commission in Washington on Aug. 29, 2020. Andrew Kelly/Reuters

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted new rules aiming to prevent what it terms digital discrimination in access to broadband services, but the move has drawn skepticism from the industry.

The new rules, approved on Nov. 15, aim to ensure that all Americans have equal access to reliable and high-speed broadband services without discrimination based on income level, race, and other protected classes.