USTelecom Hits BDS Data; CWA Cites Telco Layoffs; Sprint Says Full Speed Ahead
USTelecom cited "shortcomings" in the FCC's business data service collection of data and said "regressions using that data" don't support an inference of market power. "Imposing price regulation based on the flawed data runs the risk of discouraging investment, innovation…
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and further entry, the costs of which could easily outweigh any modest price reductions that could be gained," the ILEC group said in a filing Wednesday in docket 16-143 on a discussion with Office of Strategic Planning Chief Paul de Sa and another OSP staffer. USTelecom also discussed the basis for its proposed test to deem a market competitive where two or more facilities-based competitors are present (see 1609120048). Communications Workers of America President Christopher Shelton noted CenturyLink recently announced plans to lay off up to 3,500 employees, reportedly in response to declining legacy revenue. "Surely, we don't want to see more of these headlines," said Shelton's letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler. "I know this is not a legacy you want for your tenure, but I fear we may see more of this if the Commission radically slashes" BDS rates. But Sprint urged the FCC not to delay implementation of new BDS rules as some parties have argued. A new order "should address mechanisms for expedited BDS challenge proceedings and the effect of changed BDS rules on existing and new BDS agreements," said a Sprint filing on discussions with de Sa, Wireline Bureau Chief Matt DelNero and a Wheeler aide.