FCC task force promotes broadband adoption

A new Technology Transitions Policy Task Force at the Federal Communications Commission will encourage the adoption of next-generation broadband networks.

FCC General Counsel Sean Lev and Rebekah Goodheart, associate chief of the agency’s Wireline Competition Bureau, will head up the task force as interim director and deputy director, respectively, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in making the announcement.

“Republican FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai was the first to propose the creation of a task force focusing on the transition from copper networks to fiber and wireless-based networks,” The Hill reported.

The Task Force will conduct a data-driven review and provide recommendations to modernize the FCC’s policies in a process that encourages the technological transition, according to a statement from the agency. They also hope it will empower and protect consumers, promote competition, and ensure network resiliency and reliability.

The Task Force will coordinate the Commission’s efforts on several key topics, including:

• IP interconnection;
• Resiliency of 21st century communications networks;
• Business broadband competition, and;
• Consumer protection with a focus on voice services.

“The Technology Transitions Policy Task Force will play a critical role in answering the fundamental policy question for communications in the 21st century;” Genchowski said. “In a broadband world, how can we best ensure that our nation’s communications policies continue to drive a virtuous cycle of innovation and investment, promote competition, and protect consumers?”

The Task Force will include the FCC’s Chief Economist and Chief Technology Officer, as well as staff from across the agency.