July 16, 2020
Background: At an open Commission meeting today, the FCC adopted three items to: (1) improve broadband data and maps through the collection of accurate and granular broadband service data; (2) implement new rules to combat unwanted and illegal robocalls; (3) designate 988 as the 3-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
The following statements can be attributed to USTelecom president and CEO Jonathan Spalter:
Improving Broadband Data and Maps
“Fifteen months ago USTelecom set out to prove we could leverage data and technology to cost-efficiently transform America’s broadband maps – and ultimately increase connectivity in rural America. That vision is today a reality, and we are proud to have played our part in helping the FCC shape this game-changing mapping plan. Especially at a time when our country is relying on its communications infrastructure more than ever, modernizing our maps could not be more essential and smart policy. Next up: Congress must fully fund this data-driven mapping project so that future federal broadband spending will be based on the most accurate and granular map available.”
Call Blocking Rules
“The call blocking tools and cutting-edge data analytics engines used by USTelecom’s members are already helping stop billions of illegal and unwanted robocalls from reaching consumers in the first place. Combined with federal and state enforcement actions, powered by our own expanding industry-wide traceback program, we are getting better and faster at stopping the criminal scammers and spoofers who pollute our communications networks. There remains more work to do, but the practical safe harbor rules adopted by the FCC today will encourage more voice providers to implement call blocking and help more consumers take back their phones.”
Designating 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
“This is a meaningful day for American communities everywhere, and USTelecom members are proud to play a part in establishing a 3-digit dialing code for the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline in our country. The FCC’s action today will make a difference and save lives. We are committed to getting 988 up and running as quickly as possible and until it can be made available to all homes, the current toll-free access number (800-273-TALK) is available to anyone in a crisis situation who reaches out for help.”