Nutritional information labels are usually found on your favorite snacks and treats. Similar labels will become a new addition for Internet service providers in the future.
To break down internet consumption, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered broadband internet providers to create easy-to-understand labels that customers can understand online and in stores.
The FCC announced that starting April 10, customers will begin seeing broadband labels, such as nutrition labels, which are primarily regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“The label is modeled after the FDA’s nutrition label and is intended to help consumers compare and shop for the internet service plan that best fits their needs and budget,” the FCC said in a press release.
Internet providers with fewer than 100,000 subscribers have until October 10, 2024 to display these broadband labels to their customers in accordance with FCC rules.
FCC rules:Cable TV providers must clearly state the total cost of video subscriptions
Which internet service providers should have the new label?
The FCC stated that the following internet service providers must have new labels for each service plan they offer:
- home internet services
- fixed internet service
- mobile broadband plan
What does the label contain?
Broadband Internet providers are expected to be more transparent with their customers by providing them with the following key information:
- Broadband charges
- broadband speed
- data allowance
- Trial price
The label also includes links to information about the company’s network management practices and privacy policy. Additionally, a glossary is provided to help consumers better understand the information displayed on the label.
FCC also regulates cable providers for price transparency
The FCC’s announcement for internet providers follows a similar announcement the FCC made last month for cable and satellite TV providers that will be required to show the total amount of their video subscriptions. This is part of the FCC’s continued efforts to improve price transparency.
The FCC said in a news release that the total cost includes unrelated fees that can add up unexpectedly for users. Under the new guidelines, consumers will be able to compare the cost of providers and programming to other competitors, such as streaming services.
The FCC states that “fees for video programming offered by cable and DBS (direct broadcast satellite) providers are often hidden in misleading promotional materials or bills, creating significant and costly confusion for consumers. ” “This updated ‘all-in’ pricing format will allow consumers to make informed choices. ”
Under the new mandate, cable and satellite companies will have to clearly list all costs as a single line item, the FCC said. You can no longer hide fees such as local sports programming or broadcast retransmission consent.
Contributor: Anthony Robredo, USA TODAY
Ahjane Forbes is a reporter on USA TODAY’s National Trends team. Ajane covers breaking news, auto recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy topics.Please email her at aforbes@gannett.com. Instagram, Threads, and X @forbesfinest.
