Particle.news

Download on the App Store

FCC Proposes Scrapping Gigabit Speed Target and Price Review Before August Vote

Carr’s plan would realign Section 706 to measure ongoing broadband deployment rather than existing coverage.

FCC Internet Speeds
The dream of nationwide 1 gig internet seems dead, for now.
Image
Image

Overview

  • The proposal released July 17 would abolish the 1 Gbps downstream/500 Mbps upstream long-term goal established in the March 2024 FCC report.
  • It would remove broadband affordability and pricing from the Section 706 inquiry, labeling cost analysis an “extraneous” consideration.
  • The commission would shift its annual deployment review to focus on whether advanced telecommunications capability “is being deployed” instead of assessing full coverage.
  • While retaining the current 100 Mbps/20 Mbps availability benchmark, the FCC is requesting public comment on its future use.
  • These changes are designed to lower the bar for passing grades in the FCC’s annual broadband report and are slated for a vote on August 7.