FCC Debates How to Split Phone Costs Across States
Published Date: 3/24/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants your thoughts on how to update the Part 36 separations rules that decide how phone and internet costs get split between states and the federal government. This affects phone companies and customers because it could change who pays what and when. The FCC is asking for comments now to help decide if the current rules should stay frozen or change, which might impact bills and budgets soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Phone & Internet Bill Cost Shift Risk
The FCC is asking for comments on changing Part 36 separations rules that decide how phone and internet costs are split between states and the federal government. You, as a phone or internet customer, could see who pays what and when change — this might affect your bills and household budgets if the freeze is lifted or the rules are revised following the 2024 referral.
Phone Companies' Cost Allocation Uncertain
The FCC seeks comment on updating Part 36 separations rules that determine how phone and internet costs are split between states and the federal government. Phone companies could face changes to who is billed and when, which may affect their revenues, accounting, and budgets depending on whether the current freeze is kept or changed after the 2024 referral.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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