CCA Applauds FCC’s Suspension of Special Access Deregulation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lucy Tutwiler
August 23, 2012 (202) 449-9866
CCA Applauds FCC’s Suspension of Special Access Deregulation
Washington, DC – Late yesterday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission) issued an order which suspends further deregulation of the special access market. CCA – The Competitive Carriers Association commends the FCC’s decision, which is as an important step as the Commission moves forward in the special access reform process. Deregulation of special access discourages competition and is harmful to consumers, and the Commission should work to promote a competitive marketplace.
“I am pleased with the FCC’s decision to table further deregulation of special access services while it looks to finally reform the special access framework” said CCA President & CEO Steven K. Berry. “This suspension is long overdue and is an important step that will allow the Commission additional time to gather important data on special access markets. As a result, I am certain the Commission will find that the current regime of deregulation is not working. Deregulation has allowed large ILECs to abuse their market power and discourage competition through unjust and unreasonable terms and conditions, and consumers are paying the price.”
”I urge the Commission to take steps to ensure a competitive marketplace while reviewing the special access market. Left unchecked, large ILECs have been allowed to impose anti-competitive conditions, which ultimately harms consumers. The FCC should take this opportunity to bolster competition, and I look forward to our continued work on this important issue.”
About CCA
CCA is the nation’s leading association for competitive wireless providers serving rural and regional areas of the United States. The licensed service area of CCA’s more than 100 members covers 95 percent of the nation.
