New Presidential administrations often bring new directions for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). In a significant move, FCC Chair Brendan Carr has abolished a proposal from the Biden era that aimed to limit landlords’ control over internet service providers. The decision allows landlords to mandate tenants to subscribe to a single bulk internet service, potentially forcing tenants to pay for services they may not want or need.
Carr defended his decision as beneficial for consumers, arguing that the previous proposal would have led to increased internet costs for residents. He characterized the initiative as an example of “regulatory overreach” and indicated plans to reverse additional elements of the FCC’s previous policies.
Contrary to perceptions, the scrapped proposal was not a ban on bulk internet services; it merely offered tenants the right to decline such services. This provision faced opposition from housing industry groups, who welcomed Carr’s decision, asserting that it enables residents to benefit from bulk billing arrangements.
Lobbyists representing cable companies praised Carr’s actions, reinforcing the idea that landlords should have the authority to provide bulk internet services. Public Knowledge, a non-profit advocating for public interest, commented that the proposed bulk-billing ban would have curtailed practices that enable landlords and telecom companies to sidestep existing FCC rules. As a result of this recent decision, tenants may face challenges regarding the quality and pricing of internet services as landlords regain control over these offerings.
