Does the FCC Regulate VoIP?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked to create an environment promoting competition and innovation to benefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004, the FCC found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding to examine what its’ role should be in this new environment of increased consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding the public interest. Aspects of these considerations may change with new developments in internet technology. You should always check with the VoIP service provider you choose to confirm any advantages and limitations to their service.
Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004, the FCC found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding to examine what its’ role should be in this new environment of increased consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding the public interest. The FCC has organized an FCC Internet Policy Working Group to identify, evaluate and address policy issues that will arise as telecommunications services move to Internet-based platforms.
