Public Interest, Consumer Groups Ask FCC to Reconsider Text Message Classification

Groups led by Public Knowledge asked the FCC to reconsider a 3-1 decision in December clarifying text messages are a lightly regulated Communications Act Title I service (see 1812120043). The order’s reasoning “is fallacious and fails to support its outcome,” the petition said. “Events since the order was issued confirm the need for the Commission to reconsider its action -- specifically, controversies concerning the privacy of customer location data and whether carriers will hinder the ability of schools and teachers to use third-party tools to stay in touch with students and parents.” The Benton Foundation, Common Cause, Consumer Federation of America, Greenlining Institute, National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Open Technology Institute and The Utility Reform Network were among signers, in docket 08-7. The FCC didn't comment.