FCC not Considering AllVid, Wheeler Tells Members of the Congressional Black Caucus

The FCC isn't considering the AllVid video proposal, Chairman Tom Wheeler reassured members of the Congressional Black Caucus in a response dated Jan. 15 and released Monday. He criticized “misinformation” about what the FCC is considering and currently doing under Section 629 of the Communications Act. “The issue before the Commission is how to obey Section 629 in a world of evolving technology,” Wheeler said. “A monopoly-provided set top box would appear to be the opposite of the choice inherent in an ‘app TV’ future and contrary to the statutory mandate.” He also reassured caucus members that any alternative considered by the FCC “will include the critical capabilities to receive emergency alerts, protect privacy and abide by copyright rules.”