Regulating Internet Access: Lessons from COVID-19

As some states and localities have paused re-opening efforts in response to recent increases in COVID-19 cases, internet access continues to serve a critical role to help many individuals work, learn, and receive healthcare from home. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission) has encouraged internet service providers to expand internet access and ensure that networks can support increased traffic.

A centerpiece of the FCC’s approach in the early stages of the COVID-19 emergency was the Keep Americans Connected Pledge. Internet providers who took the voluntary pledge promised to waive late fees and not disconnect a customer’s service through June 30. With the expiration of the pledge, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai has called on internet providers to offer continuing support to customers affected by COVID-19.