Back in June, Comcast filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission over a federal law passed in 2021 requiring companies to fully disclose all fees to customers. The law requires broadband customers to be provided with a label clearly outlining exact pricing information as well as additional fees, discounts, bundle deals, and connection speeds at the point of sale.
Now the FCC has responded to these requests to keep their hidden fees and has rejected Comcast’s request. The FCC said that it wants to preserve consumer access to clear, easy-to-understnad, and accurate information about the cost and performance of broadband service.
“Every consumer needs transparent information when making decisions about what internet service offering makes the most sense for their family or household. No one wants to be hit with charges they didn’t ask for or they did not expect. That’s why Broadband Consumer Labels are so important,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
Once the review is completed, companies will be required to provide a complete list that outlines all broadband prices, introductory rates, data allowances, internet speeds, and links to more information about ISP’s network management practices and privacy policies. Internet service providers can say “taxes included” when their price already includes taxes.
The FCC says these new rules will go into effect within six months once it is fully approved. Providers with 100,000 or fewer subscriber lines face a deadline of twelve months after the rules are accepted.
The FCC has not announced when they expect the new rules to go into effect but when that happens customers will be to easily see the true cost of their internet service.