The FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau has requested comments on a petition for expedited declaratory ruling filed by NCTA — The Internet & Television Association (NCTA) asking the FCC to clarify that: (1) in areas with no access to broadband service, pole owners must share in the cost of pole replacements consistent with the Communications Act, FCC rules, and precedent; (2) pole attachment complaints arising in unserved areas should be prioritized through placement on the Accelerated-Docket under FCC rules; and (3) FCC rules authorize the FCC to order any pole owner to complete a pole replacement within a specified period of time or designate an authorized contractor to do so. Comments are due by August 19, 2020, and reply comments are due by September 3, 2020.
