FCC Weighs In on Carmakers and Domestic Abuse Policy Because ...

The chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday will propose a potential new rule that would subject automakers that sell internet-connected cars to a telecommunications law intended to protect domestic violence survivors.

Cases of technology-enabled stalking involving cars are emerging as automakers add ever more sophisticated features, such as location tracking and remote control of functions like locking doors or honking the horn.
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FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel last month wrote to nine large automakers and three telecom providers seeking more information about their policies involving internet-connected car technology and domestic abuse. The federal Safe Connections Act gives the FCC authority to help domestic abuse survivors securely access communications, the letter said.

Ed Morrissey

Why would the FCC have jurisdiction over carmakers or domestic-abuse policies? They're leveraging the Internet connections in newer vehicles to exercise authority they don't have. The FCC is only tasked with enforcing the nuts-and-bolts communications that use public airwaves, which includes the Internet. That doesn't give them authority to issue edicts that cover every aspect of lives that connect to the Internet.

Congress needs to make that abundantly clear. This is another case of agency law running amok. 

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