Benton Institute analysis faults FCC for lack of attention to broadband affordability

"The Benton analysis concludes that the FCC's report measures process, not outcomes, stating that it offers no evidence that broadband deployment has actually accelerated, that prices have fallen, or that the digital divide has narrowed."

"While the current FCC seeks to save taxpayer dollars, improve Commission efficiency, and eliminate obsolete rules, Benton argues that the measure of success should be the growth of connectivity, especially among low-income Americans."

"Benton is highly critical of the FCC report's lack of policy statements on Universal Service, calling it the agency's most effective tool for closing the digital divide."

"The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund program, initiated by the FCC in 2020, aimed to distribute $16 billion for broadband construction but has been deemed ineffective due to various factors."

The FCC, under Brendan Carr's chairmanship, has prioritized bureaucratic processes over consumer broadband affordability, according to an analysis by the Benton Institute. The FCC's Annual Performance Report measures procedural efficiency but lacks evidence of improved broadband deployment, reduced prices, or a narrowing digital divide. Benton criticizes the FCC's omission of Universal Service policy statements, which are vital for closing the digital divide. The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund program has also been ineffective in achieving its goals for broadband construction funding.

Read at Telecompetitor