Reactions to FCC Business Data Services Item Withdrawal

Industry players were reacting to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler's decision to pull a vote on the business data services (BDS) revamp proposal opposed by cable Internet service providers and others, including one who said it tarnished the commission. The item had been scheduled for a vote Nov. 17, but was pulled after Republicans in Congress asked that Chairman Wheeler step down from any controversial votes given the transition to a new Administration.

“We are pleased with the FCC’s decision not to enact new regulations for business data services and other proceedings today,” said CenturyLink senior VP John Jones. “We believe the communications industry will continue to be competitive, innovative and market-driven without the burden of regulation. We look forward to working collaboratively with the new administration and the FCC to take our nation’s telecommunications and technology infrastructure to the next level of security, reliability and speed.”

USTelecom, whose members joined the National Cable & Telecommunications Association in opposing the proposal, was equally pleased. “We appreciate Chairman Wheeler’s decision to abide by requests from Congress not to move forward with substantial policymaking proceedings that could have a significant impact on the economy and the public," said USTelecom President Walter McCormick. "We look forward to working with the new administration and FCC on future broadband initiatives that will lead to greater infrastructure investments that better serve American consumers and businesses.”