The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) recommends that the FCC reconsider its six-year-old definition of broadband internet to make sure it aligns with modern expectations.
The FCC currently defines broadband internet access as an always-on connection that provides 25Mbps download speeds and 3Mbps upload speeds. This definition was introduced by then-FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler in 2015, who said at the time that the commission’s previous requirements of 4Mbps downloads and 1Mbps uploads established in 2010 were outdated.
Now it seems the definition of broadband internet access in America might need to be updated again. The GAO says that “much of the literature” it’s reviewed suggests the current parameters “are likely too slow to meet many small business speed needs.” It also pushed back against the FCC’s claim in the 2021 Broadband Deployment Report that these speeds are sufficient.
“FCC officials said they are not aware of any small business requirements that have been taken into consideration in determining the minimum speed benchmark,” the GAO says. “Analyzing small business speed requirements could help inform FCC’s determination of the benchmark speed for broadband.”
Although the GAO’s recommendation is focused specifically on small businesses, consumers should also benefit from an updated definition of broadband internet access. Having a faster connection would likely improve many Americans’ leisure time—streaming and downloading media is much easier over speedy connections—as well as their ability to work from their homes.
“GAO is making one recommendation to FCC to solicit stakeholder input and analyze small business broadband speed needs and incorporate the results of this analysis into the benchmark for broadband,” the office said. “FCC agreed with this recommendation.” More information about the FCC’s response should be published to the GAO website as it becomes available.
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