NCTA Questions FCC Objectivity on National Broadband Map

The FCC’s “erratic” recent history with broadband reporting could have consequences for the national broadband map, NCTA said in a blog post Wednesday. It pointed to the agency’s shift from defining broadband as 4/1 Mbps to 25/3 Mbps as evidence of the commission’s lack of consistency in broadband reporting. “Inconsistent and spotty reporting using an ever-shifting set of metrics is hardly conducive to sound analysis,” NCTA said. It challenged FCC credibility in broadband reporting. “Under Section 706, the FCC has an interest in highlighting problems rather than successes because the statute gives the FCC authority to take immediate action if it reaches a negative finding in its annual report,” NCTA said. The open Internet order and the new Broadband Opportunities Council “mark a new level of government involvement in the operation of the broadband marketplace,” NCTA said. The White House created the council to spur broadband investment and adoption, it said Monday (see 1503230064).“With increased government oversight and participation comes an increased responsibility for government to be a resource for factual and impartial data.”