FCC to vote on plans to speed up copper retirement to accelerate fiber network deployment
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced plans to vote on March 26, 2026, to accelerate the retirement of legacy copper networks, freeing up tens of billions of dollars annually for the rollout of modern, high-speed fiber networks. This regulatory change, welcomed by telecom trade association USTelecom and companies like AT&T, aims to update rules to reflect current communication marketplace realities and allow Americans to benefit from next-gen infrastructure. The decision is expected to unlock significant private capital for fiber deployment across the country.
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The FCC plans to hold a vote on March 26 to speed up the removal of copper networks. The rules are expected to free up tens of billions of dollars annually for the rollout of more modern networks and unlock billions of dollars in private capital. The FCC aims to update regulations to reflect the current communications marketplace while retaining safeguards for public safety and 911 continuity. Quotes: "The meeting, set for March 26, aims to vote on rules..." "freeing up tens of billions of dollars annually for the rollout of more modern networks." "This FCC decision will free up billions of dollars in private capital..." "The FCC noted that it will take several actions to "bring the regulatory environment in line with today’s communications marketplace, while retaining or adopting safeguards to protect public safety and ensure 911 continuity."
"The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced plans to hold a vote later this month to speed up the removal of copper networks."
"Telecoms trade association USTelecom has welcomed the proposed plans."
"US telcos, including AT&T , have pushed to retire and remove legacy copper from their networks in favor of deploying fiber."
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