Accelerating Network Modernization and Reducing Copper Maintenance Costs

STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN BRENDAN CARR

Re: Reducing Barriers to Network Improvements and Service Changes; Accelerating Network

Modernization, WC Docket Nos. 25-209; 25-208, Report & Order (March 26, 2026).

Today’s decision marks an important step in accelerating America’s transition to modern, high- speed networks. For too long, outdated rules and regulations have forced providers to maintain aging copper infrastructure and to keep consumers on broken, antiquated networks. And this has come at a high cost. One provider alone reports that they have been spending about $6 billion a year maintaining copper lines for a dwindling number of consumers. That changes today. This vote effectively frees up those billions of dollars so that Americans can benefit from an upgrade to the types of modern, high-speed networks that they want and need. At the same time, we take a balanced approach that protects consumers and preserves access to critical services like 911. Our updated rules ensure that Americans will still have reliable access to the voice services they rely on for public safety communications and everyday communications alike. And at prices that remain comparable to what they pay today. In other words, we are advancing modernized networks while making sure no one is left behind. Today’s item also sends a clear signal. Bad actors cannot use outdated state and local requirements to undermine the federal policies the FCC codifies today. Requirements that would leave communities stuck on aging copper will be preempted so that Americans in every community benefits from new investments and next-gen networks. I want to thank the FCC staff whose hard work made today’s item possible, including Michele Berlove, Marie Bordelon, Jodie Griffin, Rhonda Lien, John Visclosky, Jodie May, Joseph Calascione, Malena Barzelai, Sarah Citrin, David Furth, and Rachel Waxman. And thank you to all of you that have driven progress on our network modernization efforts over the last year.

Federal Communications Commission FCC 26-19