USTelecom Says Telecom Unbundling Regulations are Outmoded; Competitors Say They Need Those UNEs

USTelecom has filed a forbearance petition with the Federal Communications Commission, asking the commission to eliminate a requirement for larger, incumbant telephone companies to offer unbundled network elements (UNEs) at regulated prices. USTelecom President and CEO Jonathan Spalter said telecom unbundling regulations currently enable competitive carriers to lease network elements – typically the copper connection between the customer and the telco central office – at “extremely low rates.” INCOMPAS, an association that represents competitive carriers, sees it differently. According to INCOMPAS, easing unbundling regulations would hamper, not hasten, broadband deployment and would lead to higher prices for consumers and businesses.