Senators Press FCC on Broadband Pricing

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U.S. CongressFour progressive senators: Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Al Franken (D-MN) and Ed Markey (D-MA) wrote a letter saying that many internet customers are harmed by lack of competition in the cable and ISP businesses.


They want a study on ISP prices as part of an FCC investigation.

“Consumers in our country have little or no choice in their Internet and cable. As a result, these companies are able to charge ridiculous prices and add hidden fees onto a customer’s bill. It’s no wonder the American public rank these providers last in customer satisfaction,” the senators wrote.

The noted that the US ranks only #25 in broadband but costs more than many of the locations that provide speedier service.

They said recent mergers have created de facto monopolies, and said that increased prices have become the norm.

“Americans deserve affordable access to the Internet, not hidden fees and rising prices,” said Sanders. “I hope Chairman Wheeler will take action and continue to defend American consumers.”