WTA and NTCA File Reply Comments on ICC Reform

On November 20, NTCA and WTA filed joint reply comments in response to the FCC’s proceeding refreshing the record on intercarrier compensation (ICC) reform. The two associations filed original comments on October 27.

In their comments, the associations “demonstrate why ICC reform cannot be effectuated while high-cost support mechanisms remain insufficient to enable fulfillment of universal service obligations. Current high-cost support budget constraints are visiting adverse impacts on carriers’ ability to invest and maintain networks.”

The associations “also address alleged arbitrage, and urge the Commission to undertake a targeted response rather than wholesale reformation that would wreak disproportionate impacts upon parties who are not engaged in any of the alleged practices.”

Finally, the associations “urge the Commission to ensure that network edge and interconnection standards ensure the ability of rural carriers to connect (and to thereby connect their customers) broadly and affordably.”