Court rejects Verizon challenge to roaming rule
WASHINGTON (AP) - A federal appeals court has rejected a Verizon challenge to a Federal Communications Commission rule aimed at increasing competition in wireless broadband service.
The three-judge panel ruled Tuesday that the FCC had the legal authority to issue the "data roaming rule." The rule requires big wireless carriers to open their data networks to smaller regional operators in places where they don't have their own systems. The large carriers must offer network access at reasonable prices.
Verizon has called the rule "unwarranted government intervention," and challenged it on several grounds - including that the FCC lacked the statutory authority to issue it.
But appeals court judges Thomas Griffith, David S. Tatel and Merrick B. Garland disagreed. Griffith was appointed by President George W. Bush; the other two by President Bill Clinton.
The three-judge panel ruled Tuesday that the FCC had the legal authority to issue the "data roaming rule." The rule requires big wireless carriers to open their data networks to smaller regional operators in places where they don't have their own systems. The large carriers must offer network access at reasonable prices.
Verizon has called the rule "unwarranted government intervention," and challenged it on several grounds - including that the FCC lacked the statutory authority to issue it.
But appeals court judges Thomas Griffith, David S. Tatel and Merrick B. Garland disagreed. Griffith was appointed by President George W. Bush; the other two by President Bill Clinton.
Years ago, the FCC ruled telecoms had to open their lines to DSL providers in much the same manner. They also ruled that Comcast did not have to open their lines to other cable broadband providers. That is BS; I hate Comcast and their lousy support and expensive rates.
Then you don't understand the underlying reason behind those decisions, POTs (Plain Ol Telephone) systems were deemed a necesary service by the government much like water,sewer and power. Cable TV and Cable TV systems were an entertainment service and as such did not fall under the same regulations as they did not provide telecommunications services like POTs did. Like it or hate it, it was the appropriate and correct decision.Â
@JFR I know what POTS is, I'm a systems engineer and have been a network admin in two other companies. I remember the history of that, however phone service has evolved quite a bit since then. In fact, Verizon no longer even offers or has asked for permission to exit the landline business altogether from the FCC.
Continuing to treat broadband service the same as it was a decade ago makes no sense. DSL is not a necessary service, and neither is cable internet (or TV). Requiring telecom providers to open their lines for telephone service is one thing, but allowing competing providers to access their lines for DSL service makes no sense if they will not enact the same on cable.
I never thought I would side with Verizon, but this is BS!