The FCC has adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that proposes and seeks comment on various deregulatory options for the retirement of copper networks. The rulemaking aims to accelerate the transition to IP-based networks and advanced communications for consumers. Specifically, the NPRM proposes and seeks comment on revisions to the Commission’s network change disclosure rules and section 214(a) discontinuance processes to eliminate regulatory barriers and costs. The item builds on recent actions taken by the FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau to accelerate the transition from aging copper lines to modern network infrastructure.
