By John Eggerton, Broadcasting & Cable Online, 8-10-20

Broadband operators are asking the FCC to clarify that they don’t have to pay the entire cost of a replacement pole when they are seeking attachments to build out broadband to unserved communities, something the agency itself is pushing for in trying to close the digital divide.

NCTA-The Internet & Television Association has asked the FCC for a declaratory ruling that the cost of replacing a utility pole in order to accommodate building out broadband to an unserved area should be shared by the pole owner, typically an electric utility, and the attacher, usually a broadband operator, rather than putting the cost entirely on ISPs.  » Read More