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Net Neutrality: The Comeback Kid

By: Erin Stanley

Net neutrality is a fundamental principle ensuring that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) treat all Internet traffic equally. In 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) passed a sweeping order preventing ISPs from blocking, selectively speeding up, slowing down, or prioritizing internet traffic. Just two years later, in 2017, the policy was repealed.  However, it has once again become a focal point of U.S. regulatory policy. In 2024, the FCC reinstated strict net neutrality rules marking a significant return to the initially established regulations in 2015.

RealtyCom aims to educate our clients about net neutrality. However, it takes time to have a significant impact on the types of services and marketing agreements which we advise our clients on. To understand its impact, let’s revisit the arguments for and against net neutrality:

For Net Neutrality: Key Arguments Against Net Neutrality: Key Arguments
Preservation of Open Internet, Promotion of Innovation and Competition: Proponents argue that net neutrality is crucial for maintaining an open and fair Internet, where all online content is treated equally. Without these regulations, ISPs could prioritize […]
By |2024-08-26T13:49:19-06:00August 26th, 2024|

Regulatory Compliance in Telecom – Understanding the Federal, State, and Local Laws Impacting Resident Choice at Your Property

By: Phil Veletzos

On the eve of possible new rules from the FCC affecting bulk service agreements, RealtyCom Partners offers the following survey of recent State and Federal rules that may impact infrastructure, service provider negotiations, and operations in multifamily properties. This summary is based on our practical experience in the multiple dwelling unit (MDU) telecom, and technology industries. We are not attorneys and therefore this is not legal advice. We strongly recommend our clients consider relevant local laws that may impact broadband access deployment, and chargebacks–and to consider obtaining legal advice from a local attorney experienced with such matters. 

Summary of State & Federal Rules

Federal Updates

FCC Bulk Billing Arrangements
Possible “opt-out” options for residents in properties with bulk agreements. Discuss direct resident billing with your service providers…just in case.

Digital Discrimination Rules
Effective January 2024: Rules against broadband access discrimination based on income, race, ethnicity, etc. Enforcement anticipated to begin September 22, 2024. Ensure competitive service levels to avoid complaints. Challenges are pending.

Expanding CBRS
Changes will increase wireless broadband access, affecting coverage areas that include an estimated 71 million people. May lead to enhance connectivity and control of building systems in MDUs.

State and Local […]

By |2024-07-15T15:30:15-06:00July 10th, 2024|

ICYMI: 2024 Broadband Communities Summit

By:  Rush Blakely

This year, three RealtyCom team members attended the Broadband Communities Summit in The Woodlands, Texas. This annual event is designed for property owners and telecommunication service providers to meet and discuss strategies for delivering connectivity to communities across the country. If you were unable to attend we’ve recapped the most important topics discussed at the summit for you below.

FCC – Potential Regulation of Bulk Billing Agreements
As we alerted our clients in our March newsletter, The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under a directive by The White House, is seeking to regulate bulk billing agreements in an effort to lower costs and address lack of choice in multifamily communities.  Many in our industry have been vocal against further regulation including property owners, the National Multifamily Housing Council, and the National Apartment Association. During several sessions at the 2024 Broadband Communities Summit, this topic was passionately discussed. ISP’s and providers agreed that regulation will harm residents and disincentivize investment in broadband services. It was clear that providers are concerned and are prepared to share their perspectives during the comment period following a […]

By |2024-06-11T10:53:22-06:00June 10th, 2024|
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