Facilitating a Robust Communications Industry
- For many decades, companies operated separate communications networks for different services, including wired telephone, radio and television, subscription video, satellite, and wireless telephone services. As a result, government legislation, through the Communications Act of 1934, and regulations developed along these separate industry lines. Further, FCC’s organizational structure reflects many of these separate industry lines.
- In recent years, technological developments and market forces have promoted convergence in the communications industry. Today’s broadband networks deliver a myriad of services, including voice, video, and data that can improve residents’ lives and schools’ access to educational material, as well as contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Highlights of GAO-06-426 (PDF)
- GAO previously noted that the structure of the Communications Act was “stovepiped” along the separate industry lines and encouraged Congress to amend the act to reflect the changes that were emerging at that time and that have subsequently overtaken the industry. An outdated legislative and regulatory framework that does not reflect the current technology and market structure can hinder the continued advancement of the communications industry.
^ Back to topWhat Needs to Be Done
- GAO recommended that FCC consider collecting additional data and developing additional measures to monitor competition on an ongoing basis. FCC should also develop a meaningful and workable definition of effective competition. Implementation of these recommendations will help encourage competition and ensure lower prices and adequate consumer choice.
Highlights of GAO-07-80 (PDF)
^ Back to topKey Reports
- Telecommunications: FCC Needs to Improve Its Ability to Monitor and Determine the Extent of Competition in Dedicated Access Services
- GAO-07-80, November 29, 2006
- Summary (HTML) Highlights Page (PDF) Full Report (PDF, 82 pages) Accessible Text Recommendations (HTML)
- Telecommunications: Broadband Deployment Is Extensive throughout the United States, but It Is Difficult to Assess the Extent of Deployment Gaps in Rural Areas
- GAO-06-426, May 5, 2006
- Summary (HTML) Highlights Page (PDF) Full Report (PDF, 70 pages) Accessible Text Recommendations (HTML)
- Telecommunications: Options for and Barriers to Spectrum Reform
- GAO-06-526T, March 14, 2006
- Summary (HTML) Highlights Page (PDF) Full Report (PDF, 24 pages) Accessible Text
- Telecommunications: Strong Support for Extending FCC's Auction Authority Exists, but Little Agreement on Other Options to Improve Efficient Use of Spectrum
- GAO-06-236, December 20, 2005
- Summary (HTML) Highlights Page (PDF) Full Report (PDF, 39 pages) Accessible Text Recommendations (HTML)
