FCC’s Consumer Bureau Chief Appoints Open Internet Ombudsperson

Federal Communications Commission Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau Chief Alison Kutler appointed Michael A. Janson to serve as the next Open Internet ombudsperson, the public’s primary point of contact within the agency for formal and informal questions and complaints related to the Open Internet rules.

Janson succeeds Parul Desai who will return to her previous position as an attorney advisor within the FCC’s Audio Division in the Media Bureau, where she will lead outreach efforts. During her tenure as the agency’s first ombudsperson, Desai helped establish protocols and systems for managing incoming questions and for helping move concerns toward resolution.

The Open Internet rules established “an ombudsperson to assist consumers, businesses, and organizations with open Internet complaints and questions by ensuring these parties have effective access to the Commission’s processes that protect their interests.” The establishment of the ombudsperson position came as a result of suggestions from a wide array of commenters during the Open Internet proceedings. The FCC’s ombudsperson helps ensure that small and often unrepresented groups reach the appropriate bureaus and offices to address specific issues of concern.