DC Circuit Gives FCC More Time To File VoIP Symmetry Response to AT&T

A federal court modified its remaining briefing schedule for AT&T's challenge to an FCC ruling that changed its VoIP symmetry rule to allow competitive LECs partnering with over-the-top VoIP providers to charge long-distance carriers higher end-office switching fees for connecting calls to customers. Responding to a joint motion from the parties, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit issued an order Monday setting the due date for the FCC's reply brief on Sept. 23, for intervenors supporting the commission on Oct. 14, for petitioner's reply brief on Oct. 18 and final briefs incorporating a deferred index on Nov. 18 (AT&T v. FCC, No. 15-1059). The FCC sought more time to file its reply brief, which had been due Sept. 14, because that's the same day it is to file its response in the net neutrality case. AT&T filed its opening brief on July 23 (see 1507310057).