The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) now requires internet service providers (ISPs) to display breakdowns of their plans' speeds and costs in disclosures similar to nutrition labels.
"Broadband Nutrition Labels are finally here. Consumers across the country can now benefit from consistent, transparent, and accessible point-of-sale information about broadband prices and services," FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a press statement.
"These 'nutrition label' disclosures are designed to make it simpler for consumers to know what they are getting, hold providers to their promises, and benefit from greater competition-which means better service and prices for everyone," she added.
New FCC Rules Require 'Nutrition Label' for Internet Plans
Starting April 10, the FCC's new regulations require major internet service providers to post broadband disclosures that resemble the nutrition labels on food products at any point of sale, including online and physical stores.
For providers with fewer than 100,000 subscribers, there is a grace period until October 10 to ensure compliance with the FCC rules, which mandate the display of broadband labels.
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What Information Are Required on the Broadband Labels?
According to Fox Business, the FCC is now requiring broadband internet providers to tell consumers if a monthly price is an introductory rate, how long an introductory rate applies, the monthly price after the introductory rate, the name of the plan and its speed level, and the length of the contract with a link to the contract.
The labels must also show the plan's usual download speed, upload speed, and latency, as well as its data limit and extra data costs. Government taxes, early termination fees, one-time purchase fees, and other charges and conditions by providers must also be included in the labels.
It must also include a link to a website that provides information on discounts and packages, like those that bundle internet with video, phone, and wireless services.
The FCC-mandated broadband labels must also include links to the provider's network management and privacy policies, as well as the phone and website details for its customer support.
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