FCC Could Rule on DSL Line Sharing
The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday reported that a vote to change the rules on DSL lines could come as early as Thursday. Supporters of the rule change acknowledge it would make it harder for independent Internet providers to offer high-speed Internet, however they feel it would also spur the telcos to build out broadband networks.
It is unclear whether or not there is enough support for the change from the FCC, which is evenly split between Republicans and Democrats in an attempt to keep the commission bipartisan. A motion to vote on the matter was not on the public agenda for Thursday's meeting, although it is expected to be added according to Journal sources.
A recent Supreme Court decision granted the FCC the authority to change the rules for cable Internet services. The FCC had given cable companies the right to deny competitors access to their networks, which the phone companies protested because they are required to do so.
The telcos argued that a double standard should not apply to their business and have demanded fairer rules.
A change, if any, would occur in the fall and could mean the end of DSL service offerings from companies like Earthlink - if they cannot reach amicable deals with phone companies over access.
Consumer groups are concerned that such a change could limit the amount of choice a user would have in selecting an ISP, while companies like Google and Microsoft have argued for "Internet neutrality" protections to be added to any ruling.
The companies say providers could use their power over high speed Internet connections to limit access to sites or favor one company's technology or software over another.
Earthlink representatives were not available to comment by press time.