FCC Republican opposes regulation of data caps with analogy to coffee refills

The Federal Communications Commission is taking a closer look at how broadband data caps affect consumers, and is considering whether it has authority to regulate how Internet service providers impose such caps. Democrats are spearheading the effort over the opposition of the FCC's Republican minority.

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel floated a plan to open a formal inquiry into data caps in June 2023, and the FCC is finally moving ahead. A Notice of Inquiry announced today "explores how broadband data caps impact competition and consumers," the FCC said.

"During the last year, nearly 3,000 people have gotten so aggravated by data caps on their Internet service that they have reached out the Federal Communications Commission to register their frustration," Rosenworcel said in a statement issued today. "We are listening. Today, we start an inquiry into the state of data caps. We want to shine a light on what they mean for Internet service for consumers across the country."

Rosenworcel's office published 600 of those complaints today and called out a few specific ones. "We have had to unplug our modem to prevent going over our data cap," an Arkansas resident told the FCC in May 2024. "We have to take our kids to find public Wi-Fi to complete their school work. We can't afford $190 a month for unlimited Internet."

Leave a Comment