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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new rules aimed at ending bill shock for broadband customers. These rules would require internet service providers (ISPs) to provide detailed, itemized bills with information about data caps and performance. However, ISPs are vehemently opposing this proposal, claiming that it would add unnecessary complexity and burdens.

ISPs from various segments of the industry, including wired and wireless operators, have united to urge the FCC to abandon the new rule before it becomes effective. Lobby groups, such as NCTA-The Internet & Television Association, which represents major cable companies like Comcast, Charter (Spectrum), and Cox, have filed an appeal against the transparency clause. Other industry groups, including NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association, ACA Connects-America’s Communications Association, CTIA, and USTelecom, which represent wireless operators like AT&T, Verizon, Lumen (formerly CenturyLink), Frontier, and Windstream, have also voiced their opposition in a recent meeting with FCC officials.

ISPs argue that listing all fees separately would create unnecessary complexity for both consumers and service providers. Instead, they propose that the FCC simply require ISPs to mention the possibility of additional fees and charges beyond what is advertised publicly.

This opposition from ISPs comes after Comcast previously expressed reservations about the new rules in a letter to the FCC. The company claimed that implementing the proposed labels would impose significant administrative burdens and unnecessary complexity on its operations. Comcast also argued that the existing rules actually benefit consumers by streamlining the labeling process.

While the FCC’s proposed rule aims to bring transparency to broadband billing, ISPs are pushing back, seeking to prevent the regulation from taking effect.

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